产品管理展示系统Product Management Display System相关申请的交叉引用CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
该申请要求2014年4月4日提交的美国申请No.14/245,779的优先权,其为2014年6月9日提交的美国申请No.14/299,695的部分继续申请,其要求2013年1月28日提交的美国申请No.61/757,479和2013年8月2日提交的美国临时申请No.62/861,843的优先权且为2013年12月20日提交的美国申请No.14/136,029的部分继续申请,其为2013年3月15日提交的美国申请No.13/839,674的部分继续申请,其为2012年7月5日提交的美国申请No.13/542,419(现在的美国专利No.8,739,984)的部分继续申请,其为2009年12月16日提交的美国申请No.12/639,656的部分继续申请,其现在为美国专利No.8,322,544,其为2009年1月22日提交的美国申请No.12/357,860的部分继续申请,其现在为美国专利No.8,453,850,其为2007年6月8日提交的美国申请No.11/760,196的部分继续申请,其现在为美国专利No.8,312,999,其为2006年4月25日提交的美国申请No.11/411,761的部分继续申请,其现在为美国专利No.7,823,734,其要求受益于2005年9月12日提交的美国临时申请No.60/716,362和2005年11月8日提交的美国临时申请No.60/734,692,其通过引用全部合并于此。美国申请No.13/542,419还要求受益于2011年9月2日提交的美国临时申请No.61/530,736、2011年10月3日提交的美国临时申请No.61/542,473和2011年10月31日提交的美国临时申请No.60/553,545,其通过引用全部合并于此。This application claims priority to US Application No. 14/245,779, filed April 4, 2014, which is a continuation-in-part of US Application No. 14/299,695, filed June 9, 2014, which claims January 2013 US Application No. 61/757,479, filed on 28 August and US Provisional Application No. 62/861,843, filed August 2, 2013, and are a continuation-in-part of US Application No. 14/136,029, filed December 20, 2013 Application, which is a continuation-in-part of US Application No. 13/839,674, filed March 15, 2013, which is US Application No. 13/542,419, filed July 5, 2012 (now US Patent No. 8,739,984) , which is a continuation-in-part of US Application No. 12/639,656, filed December 16, 2009, which is now US Patent No. 8,322,544, which was US Application No. 8,322,544, filed January 22, 2009. continuation-in-part of 12/357,860, now US Patent No. 8,453,850, which is a continuation-in-part of US Application No. 11/760,196, filed June 8, 2007, now US Patent No. 8,312,999, which is A continuation-in-part of US Application No. 11/411,761, filed April 25, 2006, now US Patent No. 7,823,734, which claims to benefit from US Provisional Application No. 60/716,362, filed September 12, 2005, and US Provisional Application No. 60/734,692, filed November 8, 2005, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. US Application No. 13/542,419 also claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 61/530,736, filed September 2, 2011, US Provisional Application No. 61/542,473, October 3, 2011, and October 31, 2011 US Provisional Application No. 60/553,545, filed on , which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
技术领域technical field
示例性实施例大体涉及用于在售卖产品时使用的货架组件，且更具体地涉及具有改进的用于展示货架上的产品并将其推出的机构的货架组件。Exemplary embodiments relate generally to shelf assemblies for use in vending products, and more particularly to shelf assemblies having an improved mechanism for displaying and pushing out products on the shelf.
背景技术Background technique
已知零售店和批发店，诸如便利店、药品店、百货店、折扣店等，需要大量货架，既用来存储产品又用来将产品展示给消费者。在展示产品时，期望货架上的产品朝向货架前方定位，从而消费者可以看见并够到产品。在用于存储和展示诸如软饮料、能量饮料、瓶装水和其他瓶装或罐装饮料这样的产品的冷柜或冰箱的情况下，期望这些产品也朝向货架前方定位，并可被消费者够到。It is known that retail and wholesale stores, such as convenience stores, drug stores, department stores, discount stores, etc., require a large number of shelves, both for storing products and for displaying products to consumers. When displaying products, it is desirable that the products on the shelf be positioned toward the front of the shelf so that the consumer can see and reach the products. In the case of freezers or refrigerators used to store and display products such as soft drinks, energy drinks, bottled water, and other bottled or canned beverages, it is desirable that these products are also positioned toward the front of the shelf and accessible to consumers.
为了实现产品的这种布置，已知系统可包括倾斜的托盘或底板，通过重力，其可导致产品向货架前方移动。许多这些系统包括由塑料材料(诸如聚丙烯)制成的底板或货架，由于其低摩擦系数，其允许产品沿倾斜底板或表面轻易滑动。但是，随着时间推移，这些表面可变得由于碎屑或粘性物质而受阻，这阻碍产品的适当滑动，有时还导致一些产品翻倒，由此阻碍其他产品移动到货架前方。In order to achieve this arrangement of products, known systems can include inclined trays or floors which, by gravity, can cause the products to move towards the front of the shelf. Many of these systems include floors or shelves made of plastic materials, such as polypropylene, which allow products to slide easily along sloping floors or surfaces due to their low coefficient of friction. Over time, however, these surfaces can become obstructed by debris or sticky substances, which prevent proper sliding of products, and sometimes cause some products to tip over, thereby preventing other products from moving to the front of the shelf.
其他系统包括使用顶推器系统，以当货架前方的产品移除时，将产品朝向货架前方推动。已知的顶推器系统典型地安装到轨道，且包括顶推器板和卷绕弹簧，用于将产品向前推动。有时，随着系统的使用和时间的推移，轨道由于污物或粘性材料而受阻，这阻碍顶推器系统在轨道中的适当操作。另外，取决于要被售卖的产品的尺寸、形状和重量，已知的顶推器板可偶尔向后翻倒或弯曲，由此导致顶推器机构卡在轨道中。在那些情况下，顶推器机构不可能适当地将产品推导货架前方。Other systems include the use of a pusher system to push product towards the front of the shelf as it is removed. Known ejector systems are typically mounted to a track and include an ejector plate and coil springs for pushing the product forward. Occasionally, with the use and time of the system, the track becomes blocked due to dirt or sticky material, which prevents the proper operation of the ejector system in the track. Additionally, depending on the size, shape, and weight of the product to be sold, known ejector plates can occasionally tip back or bend, thereby causing the ejector mechanism to get stuck in the rails. In those cases, the ejector mechanism may not properly push the product forward of the shelf.
一个示例性实施例指向通过提供无轨顶推器系统而改进现有售卖系统，所述无轨顶推器系统与重力供应售卖系统(即，倾斜的货架或托盘)和非重力供应售卖系统一起工作。One exemplary embodiment is directed to improving existing vending systems by providing a trackless ejector system that works with both gravity-fed vending systems (ie, inclined shelves or trays) and non-gravity-fed vending systems.
发明内容SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
一个示例性实施例指向一种产品管理展示系统，用于在货架上售卖产品。该实施例包括使用无轨顶推器机构，其沿布置有产品的表面行进。无轨系统克服利用轨道保持和引导现有顶推器机构的现有问题。但是应理解，该实施例的教导可与包括用于安装顶推器机构的轨道等的系统一起使用。An exemplary embodiment is directed to a product management display system for selling products on a shelf. This embodiment includes the use of a trackless ejector mechanism that travels along the surface on which the product is disposed. The trackless system overcomes the existing problems of using tracks to hold and guide existing ejector mechanisms. It should be understood, however, that the teachings of this embodiment may be used with a system including a track or the like for mounting an ejector mechanism.
顶推器机构可包括顶推器板和在顶推器板前方延伸的顶推器底板。扁平卷绕弹簧或其他偏压元件可操作地连接在顶推器板后面，且跨顶推器机构的底板延伸到货架前部。替换地，扁平卷绕弹簧或偏压元件可跨分隔器延伸到货架组件前部。通过该构造，顶推器板被防止在操作期间翻倒或向后弯曲。The ejector mechanism may include an ejector plate and an ejector floor extending forward of the ejector plate. A flat wrap spring or other biasing element is operably connected behind the ejector plate and extends across the floor of the ejector mechanism to the front of the shelf. Alternatively, a flat coil spring or biasing element may extend across the divider to the front of the shelf assembly. With this configuration, the ejector plate is prevented from tipping over or bending backwards during operation.
一示例性实施例还包括使用一种推动机构，产品在水平或非倾斜货架或表面上售卖，以及与重力供给系统一起使用，或与使用重力作为一机构将产品推向朝向货架前部的系统。An exemplary embodiment also includes the use of an urging mechanism, with products sold on horizontal or non-inclined shelves or surfaces, and with gravity feed systems, or with systems that use gravity as a mechanism to push products toward the front of the shelf .
根据本发明的示例性实施例，顶推器板可限定凹的推动表面，用于推动产品，诸如软饮料瓶或罐，并将板保持定心在轨道上并在产品后面。替换地，顶推器板可限定平的推动表面，其可进一步在其上边缘处包括弯曲肋或类似的也能用于推动柱形产品的结构。According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the ejector plate may define a concave push surface for pushing a product, such as a soft drink bottle or can, and keep the plate centered on the track and behind the product. Alternatively, the ejector plate may define a flat pushing surface, which may further include curved ribs or similar structures at its upper edge that can also be used to push cylindrical products.
根据本发明的另一示例性实施例，顶推器机构的底板可包括凹下部分或切口部分，以将顶推器机构相对于卷绕弹簧对齐。并且，系统的底板还可包括凹口或切口部分，用于接收卷绕弹簧的扁平端部并将其安装至底板。弹簧端件可布置在卷绕弹簧的端部上，以将卷绕弹簧安装到系统的底板。替换地，卷绕弹簧的端部可安装到组件的分隔器。According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the bottom plate of the ejector mechanism may include a recessed portion or a cutout portion to align the ejector mechanism relative to the coil spring. Also, the base plate of the system may also include a notch or cutout portion for receiving and mounting the flat end of the wrap spring to the base plate. Spring end pieces may be disposed on the ends of the wrap springs to mount the wrap springs to the base plate of the system. Alternatively, the ends of the wrap springs may be mounted to the divider of the assembly.
根据又一示例性实施例，适于产品管理展示系统的适配器可定位在展示系统的底板表面上。适配器可包括具有至少两个肋的平面表面，所述肋以大体平行的方式从平面表面向外延伸跨平面表面。卷绕弹簧可定位在平行的延伸肋之间。通过该构造，要被售卖的产品可安放在肋上，而不是直接在卷绕弹簧上，以增进一定类型的产品的向前移动，诸如饮料罐。According to yet another exemplary embodiment, an adapter suitable for a product management display system may be positioned on a floor surface of the display system. The adapter may include a planar surface having at least two ribs extending outwardly from the planar surface across the planar surface in a generally parallel manner. A wrap spring may be positioned between the parallel extending ribs. With this configuration, the product to be vended may rest on the ribs, rather than directly on the coil spring, to facilitate forward movement of certain types of products, such as beverage cans.
在又一替换方面，安装构件可用于将卷绕弹簧的端部安装到系统的底板。对于包括间隔开且通过连接肋连结在一起的滑动导轨的那些系统，安装构件可卡固配合或以其他方式安装在底板上，且在滑动导轨之间。In yet another alternative aspect, a mounting member may be used to mount the end of the wrap spring to the base plate of the system. For those systems that include sliding rails that are spaced apart and joined together by connecting ribs, the mounting members may be snap-fitted or otherwise mounted on the base plate and between the sliding rails.
在又一替换方面，无轨顶推器系统可改装到现有货架组件。这允许将无轨顶推器系统布置在现有货架系统中，作为购买整个无轨顶推器组件的低成本替代。In yet another alternative aspect, the trackless ejector system can be retrofitted to existing rack assemblies. This allows the trackless ejector system to be placed in an existing racking system as a low cost alternative to purchasing the entire trackless ejector assembly.
在另一示例实施例中，卷绕弹簧可安装至保持器。卷绕弹簧的端部可直接安装到保持器，或替换地，端部可经由适配器安装到保持器。适配器可具有弯曲部分，其接收在保持器中的相应形状的弯曲槽中，以将弹簧的端部固定至展示组件。In another example embodiment, a coil spring may be mounted to the retainer. The ends of the wrap springs may be mounted directly to the retainer, or alternatively, the ends may be mounted to the retainer via an adapter. The adapter may have a curved portion that is received in a correspondingly shaped curved slot in the retainer to secure the end of the spring to the display assembly.
在另一示例实施例中，托盘可经由榫合连接附连，以形成货架组件。另外，分隔器可调整为使得，产品排的宽度可适于接收不同尺寸的产品。In another example embodiment, the trays may be attached via tenon and tenon connections to form a shelf assembly. Additionally, the dividers can be adjusted such that the width of the product row can be adapted to receive products of different sizes.
根据又一示例性实施例，产品管理展示系统可布置为可堆叠设置。组件可设置有第一托盘和第二托盘，其每个具有第一壁和第二壁。第一和第二托盘每个适于接收顶推器机构和保持器机构。第一和第二间隔件安装到第一和第二托盘，用于将第一和第二托盘堆叠在彼此顶部上。第一和第二间隔件可设置有多个定位器，第一托盘和第二托盘可每个设置有多个相应形状的插槽，以接收所述多个定位器。According to yet another exemplary embodiment, the product management display system may be arranged in a stackable arrangement. The assembly may be provided with a first tray and a second tray, each having a first wall and a second wall. The first and second trays are each adapted to receive an ejector mechanism and a retainer mechanism. First and second spacers are mounted to the first and second trays for stacking the first and second trays on top of each other. The first and second spacers may be provided with a plurality of retainers, and the first and second trays may each be provided with a plurality of correspondingly shaped slots to receive the plurality of retainers.
根据又一示例性实施例，用于在货架上售卖产品的产品管理展示系统包括使用沿布置有产品的表面行进的无轨顶推器机构和用于将产品分为排的一个或多个分隔器。所述一个或多个分隔器可附连和可松脱地接合到前导轨。当一个或多个分隔器没有接合至前导轨并保持到位时，所述一个或多个分隔器和和定位在展示系统上的产品可沿侧向方向移动，或可从前导轨提起。这允许货架上的产品容易被重新布局设计。所述一个或多个分隔器通过利用相应的齿、弹性表面、锁定凸片、锁定棒、凸轮和/或通过摩擦或压配合可松脱地接合到前导轨。According to yet another exemplary embodiment, a product management display system for selling products on a shelf includes the use of a trackless ejector mechanism that travels along a surface on which the products are arranged and one or more dividers for dividing the products into rows . The one or more dividers are attachably and releasably engageable to the front rail. When the one or more dividers are not engaged to the front rail and held in place, the one or more dividers and the product positioned on the display system can be moved in a lateral direction, or can be lifted from the front rail. This allows products on the shelf to be easily rearranged. The one or more dividers are releasably engaged to the front rail by utilizing corresponding teeth, resilient surfaces, locking tabs, locking bars, cams and/or by friction or press fit.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨和至少一个分隔器，其构造为接合前导轨。所述至少一个分隔器包括挡板，所述至少一个分隔器还包括分隔器壁。所述至少一个分隔器还包括分隔器底板，其垂直于分隔器壁，其中，分隔器底板构造为保持产品。售卖展示系统还包括凸轮，其联接至分隔器，其中，凸轮构造为第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当所述至少一个分隔器与前导轨接合且凸轮处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器(a)沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向可移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨的方向被固定。当所述至少一个分隔器与前导轨接合且凸轮处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器(a)沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向固定，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨的方向被固定。In one example, a vending display system includes a front rail and at least one divider configured to engage the front rail. The at least one divider includes a baffle, and the at least one divider further includes a divider wall. The at least one divider also includes a divider floor that is perpendicular to the divider wall, wherein the divider floor is configured to hold product. The vend display system also includes a cam coupled to the divider, wherein the cam is configured to move between the first position and the second position. When the at least one divider is engaged with the front rail and the cam is in the first position, the at least one divider is (a) movable in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail, and (b) movable in a direction perpendicular to the front rail Orientation is fixed. When the at least one divider is engaged with the front rail and the cam is in the second position, the at least one divider is (a) fixed in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail and (b) in a direction perpendicular to the front rail be fixed.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨和多个分隔器，分隔器被构造为附连至前导轨，并将产品分为排。所述多个分隔器的每个包括沿垂直于前导轨的方向延伸的分隔器壁、垂直于分隔器壁的分隔器底板，其中，分隔器底板构造为保持产品，还包括联接至分隔器的凸轮，其中，凸轮构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当所述多个分隔器每个与前导轨接合且用于所述多个分隔器的每个分隔器的凸轮处于第一位置时，所述多个分隔器每个(a)沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向可移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨的方向被固定。另外，当所述多个分隔器每个与前导轨接合且用于所述多个分隔器的每个分隔器的凸轮处于第二位置时，所述多个分隔器每个(a)沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向固定，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨的方向被固定。In one example, a vending display system includes a front rail and a plurality of dividers configured to attach to the front rail and divide products into rows. Each of the plurality of dividers includes a divider wall extending in a direction perpendicular to the front rail, a divider floor perpendicular to the divider wall, wherein the divider floor is configured to hold the product, and a divider coupled to the divider. a cam, wherein the cam is configured to move between a first position and a second position. When each of the plurality of dividers is engaged with the front rail and the cam for each of the plurality of dividers is in the first position, each (a) edge of the plurality of dividers is parallel to the front The rails are movable in a lateral direction, and (b) are fixed in a direction perpendicular to the front rails. Additionally, when each of the plurality of dividers is engaged with the front rail and the cam for each of the plurality of dividers is in the second position, each of the plurality of dividers (a) is parallel along the is fixed in the lateral direction of the front rail, and (b) is fixed in a direction perpendicular to the front rail.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨和至少一个分隔器，分隔器被构造为附连至前导轨，所述至少一个分隔器包括挡板、沿垂直于前导轨的方向延伸的分隔器壁、垂直于分隔器壁的分隔器底板，其中，分隔器壁将分隔器底板分为第一部分和第二部分，第一部分和第二部分的每个构造为保持产品。售卖展示系统还包括构造为沿第一部分的至少一部分滑动的第一顶推器机构、构造为沿第二部分的至少一部分滑动的第二顶推器机构，和联接至所述至少一个分隔器的凸轮，凸轮构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当凸轮处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器可沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向沿其移动，当凸轮处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器抵抗沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向并沿其的移动。In one example, a vending display system includes a front rail and at least one divider configured to be attached to the front rail, the at least one divider including a baffle, a divider wall extending in a direction perpendicular to the front rail , a divider floor perpendicular to the divider wall, wherein the divider wall divides the divider floor into a first part and a second part, each of the first part and the second part configured to hold the product. The vend display system also includes a first ejector mechanism configured to slide along at least a portion of the first portion, a second ejector mechanism configured to slide along at least a portion of the second portion, and a device coupled to the at least one divider. A cam configured to move between a first position and a second position. When the cam is in the first position, the at least one divider is movable along a lateral direction parallel to the front rail, and when the cam is in the second position, the at least one divider resists movement along the side parallel to the front rail direction and move along it.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨和至少一个分隔器，分隔器被构造为附连至前导轨，所述至少一个分隔器包括被构造为接合前导轨的挡板、沿垂直于前导轨的方向延伸的分隔器壁、垂直于分隔器壁的分隔器底板，其中，分隔器底板构造为保持产品。展示系统还可包括弹性凸片，其联接至分隔器，其中，弹性凸片构造为第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当弹性凸片处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向固定。当弹性凸片处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器可沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向移动。In one example, a vending display system includes a front rail and at least one divider configured to attach to the front rail, the at least one divider including a baffle configured to engage the front rail, along a direction perpendicular to the front rail. A divider wall extending in the direction of a divider floor perpendicular to the divider wall, wherein the divider floor is configured to hold the product. The display system may also include a resilient tab coupled to the divider, wherein the resilient tab is configured to move between the first position and the second position. The at least one divider is secured in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail when the resilient tab is in the first position. The at least one divider is movable in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail when the resilient tab is in the second position.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨和至少一个分隔器，前导轨包括至少一个第一突出部和至少一个第一凹部，分隔器被构造为附连至前导轨，所述至少一个分隔器包括分隔器壁和垂直于分隔器壁的分隔器底板，所述至少一个分隔器还包括至少一个第二凹部和至少一个第二突出部，分隔器的所述至少一个第二突出部构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间移动，当前导轨的所述至少一个第一突出部与所述分隔器的所述至少一个第二凹部接合且分隔器的所述至少一个第二突出部处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器(a)沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向可移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨的方向被固定。当前导轨的所述至少一个第一突出部与所述分隔器的所述至少一个第二凹部接合且分隔器的所述至少一个第二突出部处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器(a)抵抗沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向的移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨的方向被固定。In one example, a vending display system includes a front rail including at least one first protrusion and at least one first recess and at least one divider, the divider configured to be attached to the front rail, the at least one divider including a divider wall and a divider floor perpendicular to the divider wall, the at least one divider further comprising at least one second recess and at least one second protrusion, the at least one second protrusion of the divider configured to Moving between a first position and a second position, the at least one first protrusion of the current rail engages the at least one second recess of the divider and the at least one second protrusion of the divider is in the first position. In one position, the at least one divider is (a) movable in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail and (b) fixed in a direction perpendicular to the front rail. The at least one divider ( a) resist movement in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail, and (b) be fixed in a direction perpendicular to the front rail.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨，前导轨包括至少一个第一突出部和至少一个第二突出部，前导轨的所述至少一个第二突出部构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间移动。售卖展示系统还包括至少一个分隔器，其构造为附连至前导轨，所述至少一个分隔器包括分隔器壁和垂直于分隔器壁的分隔器底板，所述至少一个分隔器还包括至少一个凹部。当前导轨的所述至少一个第一突出部与所述分隔器的所述至少一个凹部接合且前导轨的所述至少一个第二突出部处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器(a)沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向可移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨的方向被固定。当前导轨的所述至少一个第一突出部与所述分隔器的所述至少一个凹部接合且前导轨的所述至少一个第二突出部处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器(a)沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向固定，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨的方向被固定。In one example, the vending display system includes a front rail including at least one first protrusion and at least one second protrusion, the at least one second protrusion of the front rail configured to be in the first position and the second position move between. The vend display system also includes at least one divider configured to attach to the front rail, the at least one divider including a divider wall and a divider floor perpendicular to the divider wall, the at least one divider further including at least one recess. When the at least one first protrusion of the front rail engages the at least one recess of the divider and the at least one second protrusion of the front rail is in the first position, the at least one divider (a) It is movable in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail, and (b) is fixed in a direction perpendicular to the front rail. When the at least one first protrusion of the front rail engages the at least one recess of the divider and the at least one second protrusion of the front rail is in the second position, the at least one divider (a) is secured in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail, and (b) is secured in a direction perpendicular to the front rail.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨，前导轨包括第一突出部和第二突出部。售卖展示系统还包括至少一个分隔器，其构造为附连至前导轨，所述至少一个分隔器包括分隔器壁和垂直于分隔器壁的分隔器底板，所述至少一个分隔器还包括凹部和第三突出部。第二突出部或第三突出部的至少一个是可移动突出部，其在第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当前导轨的第一突出部与分隔器的凹部接合且可移动突出部处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器(a)沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向可移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨的方向被固定。当前导轨的第一突出部与分隔器的凹部接合且可移动突出部处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器(a)沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向固定，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨的方向被固定。In one example, the vending display system includes a front rail that includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion. The vend display system also includes at least one divider configured to attach to the front rail, the at least one divider including a divider wall and a divider floor perpendicular to the divider wall, the at least one divider further including a recess and third protrusion. At least one of the second protrusion or the third protrusion is a movable protrusion that moves between a first position and a second position. When the first protrusion of the front rail is engaged with the recess of the divider and the movable protrusion is in the first position, the at least one divider is (a) movable in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail, and (b) along the The direction perpendicular to the front rail is fixed. When the first protrusion of the front rail is engaged with the recess of the divider and the movable protrusion is in the second position, the at least one divider is (a) fixed in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail, and (b) in a vertical direction is fixed in the direction of the front rail.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨，前导轨包括至少第一接合构件。售卖展示系统还包括至少一个分隔器，其构造为附连至前导轨，所述至少一个分隔器包括分隔器壁和垂直于分隔器壁的分隔器底板，所述至少一个分隔器还包括至少一第二接合构件。售卖展示系统还包括第三接合构件，其构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当前导轨的第一接合构件与分隔器的第二接合构件接合且第三接合构件处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器(a)沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向可移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨的方向被固定。当前导轨的第一接合构件与分隔器的第二接合构件接合且第三接合构件处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器(a)沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向固定，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨的方向被固定。In one example, the vending display system includes a front rail that includes at least a first engagement member. The vend display system also includes at least one divider configured to attach to the front rail, the at least one divider including a divider wall and a divider floor perpendicular to the divider wall, the at least one divider further including at least one the second engagement member. The vend display system also includes a third engagement member configured to move between the first position and the second position. When the first engagement member of the front rail is engaged with the second engagement member of the divider and the third engagement member is in the first position, the at least one divider (a) is movable in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail, and ( b) is fixed in the direction perpendicular to the front rail. When the first engagement member of the front rail is engaged with the second engagement member of the divider and the third engagement member is in the second position, the at least one divider is (a) fixed in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail, and (b) ) is fixed in the direction perpendicular to the front rail.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨和至少一个分隔器，分隔器被构造为接合前导轨，所述至少一个分隔器包括挡板，所述至少一个分隔器还包括分隔器壁，所述至少一个分隔器还包括垂直于分隔器壁的分隔器底板，其中，分隔器底板构造为保持产品。售卖展示系统还包括凸轮，其联接至分隔器，其中，凸轮构造为第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当所述至少一个分隔器与前导轨接合时，所述至少一个分隔器可沿垂直于前导轨的方向固定。当凸轮处于第一位置时，凸轮可抑制所述至少一个分隔器沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向的移动，当凸轮处于第二位置时，凸轮可允许分隔器沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向的移动。售卖展示系统可包括把手，用于在第一位置和第二位置之间旋转凸轮。售卖展示系统可包括把手，用于在第一位置和第二位置之间滑动凸轮。In one example, a vending display system includes a front rail and at least one divider configured to engage the front rail, the at least one divider comprising a baffle, the at least one divider further comprising a divider wall, the The at least one divider also includes a divider floor perpendicular to the divider walls, wherein the divider floor is configured to hold product. The vend display system also includes a cam coupled to the divider, wherein the cam is configured to move between the first position and the second position. The at least one divider may be secured in a direction perpendicular to the front rail when the at least one divider is engaged with the front rail. The cam may inhibit movement of the at least one divider in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail when the cam is in the first position, and may allow the divider to move in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail when the cam is in the second position direction of movement. The vend display system may include a handle for rotating the cam between the first position and the second position. The vend display system may include a handle for sliding the cam between the first position and the second position.
在另一示例实施例中，售卖展示系统包括限定导轨沟槽的前导轨和构造为接合前导轨的分隔器。分隔器包括挡板、分隔器壁和垂直于分隔器壁延伸的分隔器底板。分隔器底板还包括保持产品的顶表面和底表面。售卖展示系统还包括可旋转地联接至分隔器的凸轮。凸轮构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间旋转。凸轮限定凸轮滑动部，其在分隔器底板的底表面下方延伸，并在凸轮处于第一位置时接触前导轨。在操作中，当凸轮处于第一位置且凸轮滑动部与前导轨接触时，分隔器可沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向移动，当凸轮处于第二位置且与前导轨的导轨沟槽接触时，分隔器沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向固定。通过该实施例，凸轮总是与前导轨接触，无论凸轮处于第一位置还是第二位置，还是第一位置和第二位置之间的位置。In another example embodiment, a vend display system includes a front rail defining a rail channel and a divider configured to engage the front rail. The divider includes a baffle, a divider wall, and a divider floor extending perpendicular to the divider wall. The divider base plate also includes top and bottom surfaces that hold the product. The vend display system also includes a cam rotatably coupled to the divider. The cam is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position. The cam defines a cam slide that extends below the bottom surface of the divider floor and contacts the front rail when the cam is in the first position. In operation, the divider is movable in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail when the cam is in the first position and the cam slide is in contact with the front rail, and when the cam is in the second position and in contact with the rail groove of the front rail , the divider is fixed in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail. With this embodiment, the cam is always in contact with the front rail, regardless of whether the cam is in the first or second position, or in between.
在替换方面，凸轮包括把手，用于在第一位置和第二位置之间旋转凸轮，且凸轮可包括一个或多个凸轮表面，其构造为，当凸轮处于第二位置时，接合前导轨中的一个或多个沟槽壁。另外，凸轮滑动部可限定细长平面表面。并且，售卖展示系统可包括顶推器机构，其具有顶推器表面和从顶推器表面向前延伸的顶推器底板。具有卷绕端部的卷绕弹簧可定位在顶推器表面后面，弹簧的自由端部可将顶推器机构附连到售卖展示系统。替换地，挡板可构造为接收卷绕弹簧的自由端部。在又一替换方面，前导轨可限定脊，其构造为接合分隔器中的沟槽。In an alternative aspect, the cam includes a handle for rotating the cam between the first position and the second position, and the cam may include one or more cam surfaces configured to engage the front rail when the cam is in the second position one or more trench walls. Additionally, the cam slide may define an elongated planar surface. Also, the vend display system may include an ejector mechanism having an ejector surface and an ejector floor extending forwardly from the ejector surface. A coil spring with a coiled end can be positioned behind the ejector surface, and the free end of the spring can attach the ejector mechanism to the vending display system. Alternatively, the baffle may be configured to receive the free end of the wrap spring. In yet another alternative aspect, the front rail may define a ridge configured to engage a groove in the divider.
在另一示例实施例中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨和至少一个分隔器，其构造为附连至前导轨。所述至少一个分隔器可包括挡板和沿垂直于前导轨的方向延伸的分隔器壁。分隔器可包括垂直于分隔器壁的分隔器底板，分隔器壁将分隔器底板分为第一部分和第二部分，第一部分和第二部分的每个构造为保持产品。另外，售卖展示系统包括构造为沿所述第一部分的至少一部分滑动的第一顶推器机构，和构造为沿所述第二部分的至少一部分滑动的第二顶推器机构。售卖展示系统包括联接至所述至少一个分隔器的凸轮。凸轮限定凸轮滑动部，且构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间移动。在操作中，当凸轮处于第一位置且凸轮滑动部与前导轨接触时，所述至少一个分隔器可沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向沿其移动，当凸轮处于第二位置且凸轮滑动部没有与前导轨接触时，所述至少一个分隔器抵抗沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向并沿其的移动。In another example embodiment, a vend display system includes a front rail and at least one divider configured to attach to the front rail. The at least one divider may include a baffle and a divider wall extending in a direction perpendicular to the front rail. The divider may include a divider floor perpendicular to the divider wall, the divider wall dividing the divider floor into a first portion and a second portion, each of the first portion and the second portion being configured to hold a product. Additionally, the vend display system includes a first ejector mechanism configured to slide along at least a portion of the first portion, and a second ejector mechanism configured to slide along at least a portion of the second portion. The vend display system includes a cam coupled to the at least one divider. The cam defines a cam slide and is configured to move between a first position and a second position. In operation, the at least one divider is movable along a lateral direction parallel to the front rail when the cam is in the first position and the cam slide is in contact with the front rail, and when the cam is in the second position and the cam slide is in contact with the front rail The at least one divider resists movement in a lateral direction parallel to and along the front rail when not in contact with the front rail.
在一方面，第一和第二顶推器机构每个包括顶推器表面、从顶推器表面向前延伸的顶推器底板以及具有卷绕端部和自由端部的卷绕弹簧。卷绕端部定位在顶推器表面后面，自由端部将第一和第二顶推器机构附连至售卖展示系统。In one aspect, the first and second ejector mechanisms each include an ejector surface, an ejector base plate extending forwardly from the ejector surface, and a coil spring having a coiled end and a free end. The coiled end is positioned behind the ejector surface and the free end attaches the first and second ejector mechanisms to the vend display system.
在替换方面，所述至少一个分隔器可限定分隔器接合构件，所述至少一个前导轨可限定前导轨接合构件。分隔器接合构件构造为接合前导轨接合构件。分隔器接合构件可在分隔器接合构件的至少一个表面上限定分隔器齿。前导轨接合构件可在前导轨接合构件的至少一个表面上限定前导轨齿。分隔器齿构造为接合前导轨齿。In alternative aspects, the at least one divider may define a divider engagement member and the at least one front rail may define a front rail engagement member. The divider engagement member is configured to engage the front rail engagement member. The divider engagement member may define divider teeth on at least one surface of the divider engagement member. The front rail engagement member may define front rail teeth on at least one surface of the front rail engagement member. The divider teeth are configured to engage the front rail teeth.
在另一示例实施例中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨和至少一个分隔器，其构造为接合前导轨。所述至少一个分隔器包括挡板、分隔器壁和垂直于分隔器壁的分隔器底板。分隔器底板构造为保持产品。售卖展示系统还包括联接至分隔器的凸轮。凸轮构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间移动。凸轮限定凸轮滑动部，用于在凸轮处于第一位置时将分隔器从前导轨提起。当凸轮处于第二位置且凸轮滑动部移动离开前导轨时，所述至少一个分隔器固定至前导轨。在一方面，当所述至少一个分隔器与前导轨接合时，所述至少一个分隔器沿货架平面仅沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向可移动，所述至少一个分隔器沿货架平面沿除了平行于前导轨的方向的所有方向固定。在另一方面，凸轮可包括把手，用于在第一位置和第二位置之间旋转凸轮。另外，凸轮滑动部可限定细长的平面表面，其具有允许凸轮滑动部相对于前导轨可滑动移动的边缘。In another example embodiment, a vend display system includes a front rail and at least one divider configured to engage the front rail. The at least one divider includes a baffle, a divider wall, and a divider floor perpendicular to the divider wall. The divider base plate is configured to hold the product. The vending display system also includes a cam coupled to the divider. The cam is configured to move between a first position and a second position. The cam defines a cam slide for lifting the divider from the front rail when the cam is in the first position. The at least one divider is secured to the front rail when the cam is in the second position and the cam slide moves away from the front rail. In one aspect, when the at least one divider is engaged with the front rail, the at least one divider is only movable along the shelf plane in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail, the at least one divider along the shelf plane along the shelf plane other than the All directions parallel to the direction of the front rail are fixed. In another aspect, the cam may include a handle for rotating the cam between the first position and the second position. Additionally, the cam slide may define an elongated planar surface having an edge that allows the cam slide to slidably move relative to the front rail.
在另一示例实施例中，售卖展示系统可包括前导轨和至少一个分隔器，其构造为接合前导轨。分隔器可包括挡板、分隔器壁和分隔器底板，该分隔器底板垂直于构造为保持产品的分隔器壁。前锁定件可联接至分隔器。在一方面，前锁定件可构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间旋转、枢转或移动。当在第一位置时，前锁定件可允许分隔器相对于前导轨的可滑动移动。在又一替换方面，前锁定件可将分隔器从前导轨提起。当在第二位置时，前锁定件将分隔器锁定至前导轨，并防止分隔器和前导轨之间的可滑动移动。In another example embodiment, a vend display system may include a front rail and at least one divider configured to engage the front rail. The divider may include a baffle, a divider wall, and a divider floor perpendicular to the divider wall configured to hold the product. The front lock can be coupled to the divider. In one aspect, the front lock may be configured to rotate, pivot or move between a first position and a second position. When in the first position, the front lock may allow slidable movement of the divider relative to the front rail. In yet another alternative aspect, the front lock can lift the divider from the front rail. When in the second position, the front lock locks the divider to the front rail and prevents slidable movement between the divider and the front rail.
在另一示例性实施例中，售卖展示系统可包括固定至支撑结构的分隔器。分隔器可包括分隔器壁和分隔器底板。分隔器壁可从分隔器底板向上延伸且分隔器底板可包括顶表面。系统可进一步包括挡板，其不需要旋转偏压元件而通过在折叠位置和竖立位置之间旋转而可移动。当产品朝向系统的前端移动和将挡板从折叠位置至竖立位置旋转时，位于分隔器底板的顶表面上的产品可接触挡板。挡板可被配置为当挡板处于竖立位置时停止产品的向前移动。系统可包括旋转安装结构，可移动挡板被连接至该结构。旋转安装结构可被可移动地连接至分隔器的前端。In another exemplary embodiment, the vend display system may include dividers secured to the support structure. The divider may include a divider wall and a divider floor. A divider wall may extend upwardly from the divider floor and the divider floor may include a top surface. The system may further include a shutter that is movable by rotation between a folded position and an upright position without requiring a rotational biasing member. Product on the top surface of the divider floor may contact the baffle as the product is moved toward the front of the system and the baffle is rotated from the folded to the upright position. The flap may be configured to stop forward movement of the product when the flap is in the upright position. The system may include a swivel mounted structure to which the movable shutter is attached. A swivel mounting structure can be movably connected to the front end of the divider.
在另一示例性实施例中，售卖展示系统可被与产品托盘一起使用，该产品托盘用于使得系统重新储存产品。产品托盘可包括底表面，右侧壁、左侧壁和对齐片。对齐片可包括近端、远端、右边缘和左边缘。对齐片的片宽可被限定在右边缘和左边缘之间。对齐片的近端可被连接至产品托盘的底表面且对齐片可被配置为使得片宽的至少一部分约等于储存在产品托盘中的产品的宽度。对齐片可被定位在售卖展示系统的相对分隔器壁之间，其中产品容器被限定在相对分隔器壁之间。对齐片将产品托盘和储存在产品托盘中的产品与产品容器对齐以使得储存在产品托盘中的产品能从产品托盘滑动到售卖展示系统的产品容器中。In another exemplary embodiment, the vend display system may be used with a product tray used to cause the system to restock product. The product tray may include a bottom surface, a right side wall, a left side wall, and an alignment tab. The alignment piece can include a proximal end, a distal end, a right edge, and a left edge. The sheet width of the alignment sheet may be defined between the right and left edges. The proximal end of the alignment tab can be attached to the bottom surface of the product tray and the alignment tab can be configured such that at least a portion of the width of the tab is approximately equal to the width of the product stored in the product tray. The alignment sheet may be positioned between opposing divider walls of the vend display system, wherein the product container is defined between the opposing divider walls. The alignment tab aligns the product tray and the product stored in the product tray with the product container such that the product stored in the product tray can be slid from the product tray into the product container of the vending display system.
在另一示例性售卖展示系统中，展示系统可包括增加顶推器的顶推表面的顶推器延伸器。顶推器延伸器可限定具有空腔的细长顶推器本体。顶推器延伸器可被配置为如套筒一样经由空腔在顶推器壁上滑动。具有细长的基本上平面表面的顶推器延伸器由此形成增大的顶推表面用于将较大的产品朝向展示系统的前部推。In another exemplary vend display system, the display system may include a pusher extender that increases the pusher surface of the pusher. The ejector extender may define an elongated ejector body having a cavity. The ejector extender may be configured to slide over the ejector wall via the cavity like a sleeve. The ejector extender having an elongated substantially planar surface thus creates an enlarged ejection surface for pushing larger products towards the front of the display system.
在示例性售卖展示系统中，展示系统可被安装至朝向货架的背部定位的后悬杆。悬挂件可被定位在形成在分隔器中的空腔中且延伸分隔器的长度。悬挂件的钩端则可被定位在悬杆上且整个系统可被从悬杆悬出。In an exemplary vending display system, the display system may be mounted to a rear hanger positioned toward the back of the shelf. The hanger may be positioned in a cavity formed in the divider and extend the length of the divider. The hooked end of the hanger can then be positioned on the hanger and the entire system can be suspended from the hanger.
在另一实例中，售卖展示系统可包括至少一个包括挡板的分隔器，该至少一个分隔器进一步包括分隔器壁和垂直于分隔器壁的分隔器底板。分隔器底板可被配置为保持产品。该示例性售卖展示系统还可包括顶推器机构，其具有顶推器表面、从顶推器表面向前延伸的顶推器底板、和具有卷绕端和自由端的卷绕弹簧。顶推器机构还可包括顶推器延伸器，其增加顶推器机构的顶推器表面。In another example, a vend display system can include at least one divider including a baffle, the at least one divider further including a divider wall and a divider floor perpendicular to the divider wall. The divider base plate can be configured to hold product. The exemplary vend display system may also include an ejector mechanism having an ejector surface, an ejector base plate extending forwardly from the ejector surface, and a coil spring having a coiled end and a free end. The ejector mechanism may also include an ejector extender that increases the ejector surface of the ejector mechanism.
示例性售卖展示系统还可包括悬挂件，其被配置为插入分隔器之下或在形成在分隔器中的空腔内。悬挂件可为细长的且基本上是平面的，且悬挂件可被在其一端出形成有钩，其可被配置为安装在悬杆上以悬挂至少一个分隔器和顶推器机构。顶推器延伸器可进一步包括具有空腔的细长顶推器本体。顶推器延伸器可被配置为经由空腔在顶推器表面上滑动，以形成用于顶推器的细长的基本上平面的顶推表面。分隔器可包括位于分隔器底板的后端上的切口部分，且该切口部分可允许分隔器搁置在悬杆的凸缘上。切口部分可延伸分隔器底板的宽度以形成接触线，其可延伸分隔器的宽度以在悬杆上稳定分隔器。分隔器延伸器可被配置为附连至奉劝，例如，分隔器延伸器可被配置为滑动至由分隔器形成的空腔中。弹簧的卷绕端可被定位在顶推器表面之后，且顶推器机构被在分隔器底板上的轨道中引导。挡板可被配置为接收卷绕弹簧的自由端。The exemplary vend display system may also include a hanger configured to be inserted under the divider or within a cavity formed in the divider. The hanger may be elongated and substantially planar, and the hanger may be formed with a hook at one end thereof, which may be configured to be mounted on the hanger to suspend the at least one divider and ejector mechanism. The ejector extender may further include an elongated ejector body having a cavity. The ejector extender may be configured to slide over the ejector surface via the cavity to form an elongated, substantially planar ejection surface for the ejector. The divider may include a cutout portion on the rear end of the divider floor, and the cutout portion may allow the divider to rest on the flange of the hanger. The cutout portion may extend the width of the divider floor to form a line of contact, which may extend the width of the divider to stabilize the divider on the hanger. The divider extender may be configured to attach to the advice, eg, the divider extender may be configured to slide into a cavity formed by the divider. The coiled end of the spring can be positioned behind the ejector surface and the ejector mechanism guided in tracks on the divider floor. The baffle may be configured to receive the free end of the wrap spring.
在另一实例中，售卖展示系统可包括具有顶推器表面的顶推器机构，和具有卷绕端和自由端的卷绕弹簧，和配置为限制产品的运动的保持器。但是，顶推器表面可被相当于保持器成角度。顶推器机构可包括顶推器板和顶推器延伸器，其配置为配合在顶推器板上，且顶推器延伸器可包括顶推器表面。顶推器延伸器还可包括至少一个凸片，其配置为辅助固定顶推器延伸器至顶推器板上的位置中。顶推器延伸器还可包括至少一个突起，其配置为与位于顶推器板上的相应沟槽对其辅助固定顶推器延伸器至顶推器板上的位置中。顶推器延伸器还可限定具有空腔的细长顶推器本体。分隔器可被设置和配置为分开的产品，且分隔器延伸器可被配置为附连至分隔器。例如，分隔器延伸器可被配置为滑动至有分隔器形成的空腔中。In another example, a vend display system may include an ejector mechanism having an ejector surface, and a coil spring having a coiled end and a free end, and a retainer configured to limit movement of the product. However, the ejector surface can be angled by the equivalent of the retainer. The ejector mechanism can include an ejector plate and an ejector extender configured to fit over the ejector plate, and the ejector extender can include an ejector surface. The ejector extender may also include at least one tab configured to assist in securing the ejector extender into position on the ejector plate. The ejector extender may also include at least one protrusion configured to assist in securing the ejector extender in position on the ejector plate with a corresponding groove on the ejector plate. The ejector extender may also define an elongated ejector body having a cavity. The dividers can be provided and configured as separate products, and the divider extenders can be configured to be attached to the dividers. For example, the divider extender may be configured to slide into the cavity formed by the divider.
在另一方面，售卖展示系统被描述为具有顶推器结构，其滑动地联接到轨道。顶推器结构包括锁定臂，其配置为选择性地接合棘齿条以允许当手动力施加到顶推器结构的顶推器面时顶推器结构的选择性单向运动。而且，使用拉片将棘齿条从锁定臂的选择性脱离允许所述顶推器结构沿所述轨道的双向滑动，以允许展示的产品朝向展示货架的前部移动，或允许产品被装载进售卖展示系统中。In another aspect, a vending display system is described as having a pusher structure slidably coupled to a track. The ejector structure includes a locking arm configured to selectively engage the ratchet rack to allow selective unidirectional movement of the ejector structure when manual force is applied to the ejector face of the ejector structure. Also, selective disengagement of the ratchet bar from the locking arm using a pull tab allows bi-directional sliding of the ejector structure along the track to allow displayed product to move towards the front of the display shelf, or to allow product to be loaded into In the sales display system.
在另一方面，售卖展示系统被描述为具有顶推器结构，其滑动地联接到轨道。顶推器结构包括锁定臂，其配置为选择性地接合齿条从而当接合时，顶推器结构相对于轨道的运动被沿轨道的两个纵向方向被阻止。而且，锁定臂从齿条的选择性脱离是通过手动促动拉片进行，其中所述拉片具有斜面结构，其配置为滑动地接合锁定臂以将卡件结构抬出齿条，由此允许顶推器结构沿所述轨道滑动。In another aspect, a vending display system is described as having a pusher structure slidably coupled to a track. The ejector structure includes a locking arm configured to selectively engage the rack such that when engaged, movement of the ejector structure relative to the track is blocked in both longitudinal directions of the track. Also, selective disengagement of the locking arm from the rack is by manually actuating a pull tab, wherein the pull tab has a ramp structure configured to slidingly engage the locking arm to lift the catch structure out of the rack, thereby allowing The ejector structure slides along the track.
附图说明Description of drawings
图1示出本发明的产品管理展示系统的示例性实施例的等轴分解图。Figure 1 shows an isometric exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the product management display system of the present invention.
图2示出安装到本发明的示例性托盘或产品通道的示例性顶推器机构的等轴视图。2 shows an isometric view of an exemplary ejector mechanism mounted to an exemplary tray or product channel of the present invention.
图3示出图2的系统的另一等轴视图，产品布置在该系统中。Figure 3 shows another isometric view of the system of Figure 2 in which products are arranged.
图4示出图2的系统的另一等轴视图，多个产品布置在该系统中。FIG. 4 shows another isometric view of the system of FIG. 2 in which a plurality of products are arranged.
图5示出图4的系统的等轴后视图。FIG. 5 shows an isometric rear view of the system of FIG. 4 .
图6示出本发明的托盘或产品通道的替换实施例。Figure 6 shows an alternative embodiment of the tray or product channel of the present invention.
图7示出可与本发明的产品管理展示系统一起使用的卷绕弹簧的端部的示例端件。7 illustrates an example end piece for the end of a coil spring that can be used with the product management display system of the present invention.
图8示出安装到托盘或产品通道表面的图7的示例端件。Figure 8 shows the example end piece of Figure 7 mounted to a tray or product channel surface.
图9示出安装到卷绕弹簧端部的图7的示例端件。Figure 9 shows the example end piece of Figure 7 mounted to the end of a wrap spring.
图10示出安装到卷绕弹簧端部的图7的示例端件。Figure 10 shows the example end piece of Figure 7 mounted to the end of a wrap spring.
图11示出本发明的产品管理展示系统的替换示例性实施例的等轴图。Figure 11 shows an isometric view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of the product management display system of the present invention.
图12示出图11的系统的另一等轴视图。FIG. 12 shows another isometric view of the system of FIG. 11 .
图13示出图11的系统的前视图。FIG. 13 shows a front view of the system of FIG. 11 .
图14示出图11的系统的顶视图。FIG. 14 shows a top view of the system of FIG. 11 .
图15示出图11的系统的后视图。FIG. 15 shows a rear view of the system of FIG. 11 .
图16示出可与本发明一起使用的适配器的等轴视图。Figure 16 shows an isometric view of an adapter that can be used with the present invention.
图17示出图16的适配器的前视图。FIG. 17 shows a front view of the adapter of FIG. 16 .
图18示出本发明的适配器的示例展示。Figure 18 shows an example representation of the adapter of the present invention.
图19示出本发明的被安装适配器的等轴视图。Figure 19 shows an isometric view of an installed adapter of the present invention.
图20示出本发明的被安装适配器的前视图。Figure 20 shows a front view of an installed adapter of the present invention.
图21示出本发明的产品管理展示系统的替换示例性实施例的等轴图。Figure 21 shows an isometric view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of the product management display system of the present invention.
图22示出可用于将卷绕弹簧端部安装到展示系统底板的示例性安装构件的等轴底视图。22 shows an isometric bottom view of an exemplary mounting member that may be used to mount a wrap spring end to a display system chassis.
图23示出图22的示例性安装构件的等轴顶视图。FIG. 23 shows an isometric top view of the exemplary mounting member of FIG. 22 .
图24示出安装到卷绕弹簧端部的图22的示例性安装构件，所述卷绕弹簧安装到示例性顶推器板。24 shows the example mounting member of FIG. 22 mounted to the end of a wrap spring mounted to an example ejector plate.
图25示出安装到卷绕弹簧端部的图22的示例性安装构件的另一视图，所述卷绕弹簧安装到示例性顶推器板。25 shows another view of the example mounting member of FIG. 22 mounted to the end of a wrap spring mounted to an example ejector plate.
图26示出图22的示例性安装构件，附连的卷绕弹簧安装到系统的底板。26 shows the exemplary mounting member of FIG. 22 with the attached coil spring mounted to the base plate of the system.
图27示出安装在系统底板上的图22的示例性安装构件。FIG. 27 shows the example mounting member of FIG. 22 mounted on a system backplane.
图28示出本发明的产品管理展示系统的替换示例性实施例的等轴图。Figure 28 shows an isometric view of an alternate exemplary embodiment of the product management display system of the present invention.
图29示出图28的示例性实施例的托盘的放大等轴视图。FIG. 29 shows an enlarged isometric view of the tray of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 28 .
图29A示出图28的示例性实施例的截面视图，其示出第一固定方法。FIG. 29A shows a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 28 illustrating a first securing method.
图29B示出图28的示例性实施例的截面视图，其示出第二固定方法。29B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 28 illustrating a second method of securing.
图30示出图28的实施例的放大等轴视图，示出将弹簧附连至托盘的铆钉。Figure 30 shows an enlarged isometric view of the embodiment of Figure 28 showing the rivets attaching the spring to the tray.
图31示出图28的系统的等轴视图，其组装在预先存在的金属货架上。Figure 31 shows an isometric view of the system of Figure 28 assembled on a pre-existing metal shelf.
图32示出图28的系统的等轴视图，其组装在预先存在的金属货架上。Figure 32 shows an isometric view of the system of Figure 28 assembled on a pre-existing metal shelf.
图33示出显示系统的示例性实施例的等轴视图。33 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.
图34示出显示系统的示例性实施例的等轴视图。34 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.
图35示出适配器的示例性实施例的等轴视图。Figure 35 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of an adapter.
图36示出保持器的示例性实施例的等轴视图。Figure 36 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a retainer.
图37示出显示系统的示例性实施例的侧视图。37 shows a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.
图38示出显示系统的示例性实施例的等轴视图。38 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.
图39示出显示系统的示例性实施例的等轴视图。39 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.
图40示出显示系统的示例性实施例的等轴视图。40 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.
图41A示出分隔器的示例性实施例的侧视图。41A shows a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a divider.
图41B示出显示系统的示例性实施例的前视图。41B shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.
图41C示出图41B的截面的放大视图。Figure 41C shows an enlarged view of the cross section of Figure 41B.
图41D示出分隔器的示例性实施例的前视图。41D shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a divider.
图42示出显示系统的示例性实施例的等轴视图。42 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.
图43示出显示系统的示例性实施例的等轴视图。43 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a display system.
图44示出产品管理显示系统的示例性实施例的等轴视图。44 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a product management display system.
图45示出产品管理显示系统的示例性实施例的另一等轴视图，产品在该系统中。45 illustrates another isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a product management display system with products in the system.
图46示出产品管理显示系统的另一示例性实施例的顶视图，产品在该系统中。Figure 46 shows a top view of another exemplary embodiment of a product management display system with products in the system.
图47示出产品管理显示系统的示例性实施例的等轴后视图，产品在该系统中。47 shows an isometric rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a product management display system with products in the system.
图48示出安装至分隔器的顶推器机构的示例性实施例的等轴视图。48 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a pusher mechanism mounted to a divider.
图49示出组装到产品管理展示系统的分隔器和顶推器机构的另一等轴视图。Figure 49 shows another isometric view of the divider and ejector mechanism assembled to the product management display system.
图50示出产品管理显示系统的又一示例性实施例的等轴视图。Figure 50 shows an isometric view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a product management display system.
图51示出图50的产品管理显示系统的示例性实施例的等轴视图，其中没有产品。51 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of the product management display system of FIG. 50 without products.
图52示出图50的产品管理显示系统的示例性实施例的等轴分解视图。FIG. 52 shows an isometric exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the product management display system of FIG. 50 .
图53示出产品管理显示系统的又一示例性实施例的等轴视图。53 shows an isometric view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a product management display system.
图54示出将顶推器弹簧示例地附连至图53的产品管理展示系统的货架的等轴视图。FIG. 54 shows an isometric view of illustratively attaching an ejector spring to a shelf of the product management display system of FIG. 53 .
图55示出将顶推器弹簧示例地附连至图53的产品管理展示系统的货架的等轴视图。FIG. 55 illustrates an isometric view of illustratively attaching an ejector spring to a shelf of the product management display system of FIG. 53 .
图56示出将顶推器弹簧示例地附连至图53的产品管理展示系统的货架的等轴视图。FIG. 56 shows an isometric view of illustratively attaching an ejector spring to a shelf of the product management display system of FIG. 53 .
图57示出将顶推器弹簧示例地附连至图53的产品管理展示系统的货架的等轴视图。FIG. 57 shows an isometric view of illustratively attaching an ejector spring to a shelf of the product management display system of FIG. 53 .
图58示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的产品管理显示系统的示例性实施例的等轴视图。58 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a product management display system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图59示出图58的产品管理显示系统的示例性实施例的等轴视图。FIG. 59 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of the product management display system of FIG. 58 .
图60示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性顶推器机构的等轴视图。60 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary ejector mechanism in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图61示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性分隔器的局部等轴视图。61 shows a partial isometric view of an exemplary divider in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图62示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性分隔器和顶推器机构的等轴视图。62 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary divider and ejector mechanism in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图63示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的分隔器的示例性前部部分的局部等轴视图。63 shows a partial isometric view of an exemplary front portion of a divider according to one or more aspects of the present invention.
图64示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的前导轨的示例性前部部分的局部等轴视图。64 shows a partial isometric view of an exemplary front portion of a front rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图65示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的分隔器和前导轨之间的示例性连接的局部等轴视图。65 shows a partial isometric view of an exemplary connection between a divider and a front rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图66示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性分隔器和前导轨的侧视图。66 shows a side view of an exemplary divider and front rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图67A-C示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的附连至前导轨的示例性分隔器的侧视图。67A-C illustrate side views of an exemplary divider attached to a front rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图68A-C示出附连至根据本发明一个或多个方面的前导轨的示例性分隔器的侧视图。68A-C illustrate side views of an exemplary divider attached to a front rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图69A示出用于根据本发明一个或多个方面的前导轨的示例性导轨安装夹持件的等轴视图。69A shows an isometric view of an exemplary rail mounting clip for a front rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图69B示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性前导轨的等轴视图。69B shows an isometric view of an exemplary front rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图70示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性前导轨和导轨安装夹持件的等轴视图。70 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary front rail and rail mounting clip in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图71示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性前导轨的等轴视图。71 shows an isometric view of an exemplary front rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图72示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性分隔器和顶推器机构的等轴视图。72 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary divider and ejector mechanism in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图73示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性分隔器和顶推器机构的等轴视图。73 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary divider and ejector mechanism in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图74示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性分隔器的局部等轴视图。74 shows a partial isometric view of an exemplary divider in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图75示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性前导轨的局部等轴视图。75 illustrates a partial isometric view of an exemplary front rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图76A和76B示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性前导轨和凸轮棒杆的局部等轴视图。76A and 76B illustrate partial isometric views of exemplary front rails and cam bar levers in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图77示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性产品管理展示系统的分解前视图。77 illustrates an exploded front view of an exemplary product management display system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图78示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性产品管理展示系统的分解后视图。78 illustrates an exploded rear view of an exemplary product management display system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图79A-C示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性前导轨和分隔器的侧视图。79A-C illustrate side views of exemplary front rails and dividers in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图80示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性产品管理展示系统的等轴视图。80 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary product management display system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图81A-B示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性前导轨和分隔器的局部侧视图。81A-B illustrate partial side views of exemplary front rails and dividers in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图82A-C示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性前导轨和分隔器的局部侧视图。82A-C illustrate partial side views of exemplary front rails and dividers in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图83A-C示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性前导轨和分隔器的局部侧视图。83A-C illustrate partial side views of exemplary front rails and dividers in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图84A-F示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性产品管理展示系统的等轴视图。84A-F illustrate isometric views of an exemplary product management display system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图85示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性分隔器和前轨的侧视图。85 illustrates a side view of an exemplary divider and front rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图86A-L示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性产品管理展示系统的部件的视图。86A-L illustrate views of components of an exemplary product management display system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图87A-C示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性分隔器和前导轨的侧视图。87A-C illustrate side views of exemplary dividers and front rails in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图88A-B示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性分隔器的等轴视图。88A-B illustrate isometric views of exemplary dividers in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图89A-C示出附连至根据本发明一个或多个方面的前导轨的示例性分隔器的侧视图。89A-C illustrate side views of an exemplary divider attached to a front rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图90A-F示出附连至根据本发明一个或多个方面的前导轨的示例性分隔器的视图。90A-F illustrate views of an exemplary divider attached to a front rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图91A示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性分隔器和后导轨的侧视图。91A illustrates a side view of an exemplary divider and rear rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图92示出根据本发明一个或多个方面的示例性分隔器和导轨的侧视图。92 shows a side view of an exemplary divider and rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图93A-B示出安装至根据本发明一个或多个方面的前导轨的示例性分隔器的视图。93A-B illustrate views of an exemplary divider mounted to a front rail in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图94A-C示出与根据本发明一个或多个方面的前导轨和分隔器一起使用的示例性凸轮的运动的横截面视图。94A-C illustrate cross-sectional views of the movement of exemplary cams for use with front rails and dividers in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
图95示出了售卖展示系统的示例性部件的一些方面的顶部右部透视图。95 illustrates a top right perspective view of some aspects of exemplary components of a vend display system.
图96A和96B是售卖展示系统的示例性部件的一些方面的顶部右部透视图。96A and 96B are top right perspective views of some aspects of exemplary components of a vend display system.
图97示出了售卖展示系统的示例性部件的一些方面的顶部右部透视分解图。97 illustrates a top right perspective exploded view of some aspects of exemplary components of a vend display system.
图98A-C是售卖展示系统的示例性部件的一些方面的侧视图。98A-C are side views of some aspects of exemplary components of a vend display system.
图99A-C是售卖展示系统的示例性部件的一些方面的侧视图。99A-C are side views of some aspects of exemplary components of a vend display system.
图100A-D是售卖展示系统的示例性部件的一些方面的顶部左部透视图。100A-D are top left perspective views of some aspects of exemplary components of a vend display system.
图101A是示例性产品托盘的一些方面的顶部右部透视图。101A is a top right perspective view of some aspects of an exemplary product tray.
图101B是示例性产品托盘的一些方面的顶部视图。101B is a top view of some aspects of an exemplary product tray.
图101C-F是用于售卖展示系统的示例性部件的示例性产品托盘的一些方面的顶部左部透视图。101C-F are top left perspective views of some aspects of an example product tray for use with example components of a vend display system.
图102A是售卖展示系统的示例性部件的一些方面的顶部右部透视图。102A is a top right perspective view of some aspects of exemplary components of a vend display system.
图102B售卖展示系统的示例性部件的一些方面的顶部右部透视分解图。Figure 102B is a top right perspective exploded view of some aspects of the exemplary components of the vend display system.
图102C和102D是售卖展示系统的示例性部件的一些方面的侧视图。102C and 102D are side views of some aspects of exemplary components of a vend display system.
图103A是售卖展示系统的旋转安装结构的示例性部件的一些方面的顶部前部右部透视图。103A is a top front right perspective view of some aspects of exemplary components of a swivel mount structure of a vend display system.
图103B是售卖展示系统的旋转安装结构的示例性部件的一些方面的顶部后部右部透视图。103B is a top rear right perspective view of some aspects of the exemplary components of the swivel mounting structure of the vending display system.
图103C是售卖展示系统的旋转安装结构的示例性部件的一些方面的后视图。103C is a rear view of some aspects of an exemplary component of a swivel mount structure of a vend display system.
图103D是售卖展示系统的旋转安装结构的示例性部件的一些方面的顶视图。103D is a top view of some aspects of exemplary components of a swivel mount structure of a vend display system.
图103E是售卖展示系统的旋转安装结构的示例性部件的一些方面的右侧视图。103E is a right side view of some aspects of exemplary components of a swivel mount structure of a vend display system.
图104A售卖展示系统的示例性部件的一些方面的顶部右部透视分解图。Figure 104A is a top right perspective exploded view of some aspects of exemplary components of a vend display system.
图104B是售卖展示系统的旋转安装结构的示例性部件的一些方面的顶部右部透视图。104B is a top right perspective view of some aspects of the exemplary components of the swivel mount structure of the vending display system.
图104C是售卖展示系统的旋转安装结构的示例性部件的一些方面的底部右部透视图。104C is a bottom right perspective view of some aspects of exemplary components of a swivel mount structure of a vend display system.
图104D是售卖展示系统的旋转安装结构的示例性部件的一些方面的前视图。104D is a front view of some aspects of an exemplary component of a swivel mount structure of a vend display system.
图104E是售卖展示系统的旋转安装结构的示例性部件的一些方面的顶视图。104E is a top view of some aspects of exemplary components of a swivel mount structure of a vend display system.
图104F是售卖展示系统的旋转安装结构的示例性部件的一些方面的左侧视图。104F is a left side view of some aspects of exemplary components of a swivel mount structure for a vend display system.
图104G是售卖展示系统的旋转安装结构的示例性部件的一些方面的底部视图。104G is a bottom view of some aspects of exemplary components of a swivel mount structure of a vend display system.
图105A-D是售卖展示系统的示例性部件的一些方面的侧视图。105A-D are side views of some aspects of exemplary components of a vend display system.
图106A售卖展示系统的示例性部件的一些方面的顶部右部透视分解图。Figure 106A is a top right perspective exploded view of some aspects of exemplary components of a vend display system.
图106B是售卖展示系统的示例性部件的一些方面的侧视图。106B is a side view of some aspects of exemplary components of a vend display system.
图107-135示出了产品管理展示系统的替换实施例的透视图。107-135 illustrate perspective views of an alternate embodiment of a product management display system.
图136示出了产品管理展示系统的另一替换实施例的透视图。Figure 136 shows a perspective view of another alternative embodiment of a product management presentation system.
图137、139和143示出了产品管理展示系统的另一替换实施例的各透视图。Figures 137, 139 and 143 show perspective views of another alternative embodiment of a product management presentation system.
图138和140-142示出了产品管理展示系统的另一替换实施例的各透视图。138 and 140-142 illustrate perspective views of another alternative embodiment of a product management presentation system.
图144-147示意性地示出了另一替换产品管理展示系统的各实施例。144-147 schematically illustrate embodiments of another alternative product management presentation system.
在本发明的实施例详细解释之前，应理解，本发明没有将其应用限制到以下说明或附图示出的部件的构造和设置的细节。本发明能够涵盖其他实施例，且以各种方式实施或执行。并且，应理解，在此所用的短语和术语用于描述的目的，而不应视为限制性的。术语“包括”和“包含”以及其变体意味着涵盖以后列出的物品及其等同物以及附加物体及其等同物。此外，术语“安装”、“被安装”或“正在安装”是指广义地包括任何将一个部件安装、附连、连结或联接到另一部件(无论直接或是间接)的技术或方法。Before embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and arrangement of components shown in the following description or in the accompanying drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being implemented or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The terms "comprising" and "comprising" and variations thereof are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and their equivalents as well as additional items and their equivalents. Furthermore, the terms "installed," "installed," or "installing" are meant to broadly include any technique or method of installing, attaching, joining, or coupling one component to another (whether directly or indirectly).
具体实施方式Detailed ways
本发明可实施为各种形式。参考附图，其中，相同的附图标记表示相同的元件，图1中示出示例性实施例的等轴分解视图。示例性售卖系统10包括产品分配托盘12，其中安装有示例性无轨顶推器机构14。如以下所述，顶推器机构14将适配在托盘12中，且沿托盘的表面滑动而没有使用通常用于将传统顶推器机构保持到托盘或托盘底板的轨道、导轨或引导部。顶推器机构限定顶推器板和向顶推器板延伸的顶推器底板。卷绕弹簧可跨顶推器底板延伸，且在托盘上的前部位置处操作地连接至托盘。在本发明的一个方面，要被售卖的产品可在顶推器板前方布置在托盘上，且可安放在顶推器底板以及卷绕弹簧上。通过该构造，产品的重量将防止顶推器板翻倒以确保正确地推动产品。另外，与碎屑或粘性物质影响使用轨道、导轨或引导件的已知顶推器系统的有效性相关的问题已经被消除。本发明及其教导的其他方面、实施例和特征以下详细阐述。The present invention may be embodied in various forms. Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, an isometric exploded view of an exemplary embodiment is shown in FIG. 1 . Theexemplary vending system 10 includes aproduct dispensing tray 12 in which an exemplarytrackless ejector mechanism 14 is mounted. As described below, theejector mechanism 14 will fit in thetray 12 and slide along the surface of the tray without the use of rails, rails or guides typically used to hold conventional ejector mechanisms to the tray or tray floor. The ejector mechanism defines an ejector plate and an ejector floor extending toward the ejector plate. A coil spring may extend across the ejector floor and be operatively connected to the tray at a forward location on the tray. In one aspect of the invention, the product to be vended may be placed on a tray in front of the ejector plate and may rest on the ejector base plate and coil springs. With this configuration, the weight of the product will prevent the ejector plate from tipping over to ensure that the product is pushed properly. Additionally, problems associated with debris or sticky substances affecting the effectiveness of known ejector systems using rails, rails or guides have been eliminated. Other aspects, embodiments and features of the invention and its teachings are set forth in detail below.
示例性托盘12可限定表面16，和一个或多个分隔板或分隔器18，以将托盘分为用于放置产品的多个排。在替换方面，托盘12可以是货架或任何其他表面，产品可布置在其上用于售卖。表面16可以是实心表面，或限定多个间隔开的孔20的表面，所述孔通过多个支撑肋22间隔开。孔20和肋22提供表面，其允许布置在该表面上的物体可滑动的移动，且允许液体和污物通过孔20，从而它们不会聚集在表面16。表面16可由允许产品在表面16上可滑动移动的任何适当材料制成。其他表面或底板构造是已知的，且可与本发明原理一起使用。Theexemplary tray 12 may define asurface 16, and one or more divider panels ordividers 18 to divide the tray into rows for placing products. In an alternative aspect, thetray 12 may be a shelf or any other surface on which products may be arranged for vending.Surface 16 may be a solid surface, or a surface that defines a plurality of spaced apart holes 20 that are spaced apart by a plurality of support ribs 22 . Theholes 20 and ribs 22 provide a surface that allows for slidable movement of objects disposed on the surface and allows liquids and dirt to pass through theholes 20 so that they do not collect on thesurface 16 .Surface 16 may be made of any suitable material that allows for slidable movement of products onsurface 16 . Other surface or floor configurations are known and can be used with the principles of the present invention.
如图9和10所示，表面16可限定圆的端部部分24，其包括凹口或切口部分26。端部部分24可为圆，以匹配布置在托盘上的产品的形状。例如，所示的端部部分24为圆或限定半圆形形状，以匹配可布置在托盘中且在端部部分24上的瓶子或罐的形状。取决于要售卖的产品，其他形状的端部部分可与本发明一起使用。As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 , thesurface 16 may define a rounded end portion 24 that includes a notch or cutout portion 26 . The end portion 24 may be rounded to match the shape of the product arranged on the tray. For example, the illustrated end portion 24 is round or defines a semi-circular shape to match the shape of a bottle or can that may be placed in the tray and on the end portion 24 . Depending on the product to be sold, other shaped end portions may be used with the present invention.
凹口26可用于接收和安装卷绕弹簧30或类似偏置元件的端部29。凹口26可限定通过边缘34连结的相对成角度边缘表面32。边缘34优选地跨形成在托盘12中的产品排的宽度定心，且垂直于托盘的长度延伸。该构造将使卷绕弹簧30相对于托盘12定心，且将允许弹簧沿相对于托盘的长度大体平行的方式延伸。换句话说，凹口26的所示边缘34将允许弹簧30沿托盘12的长度在由托盘形成的产品排的中心处或附近延伸。本领域的技术人员应意识到，凹口的位置和构造可取决于弹簧的期望布置变化。The recess 26 may be used to receive and mount theend 29 of awrap spring 30 or similar biasing element. Notches 26 may define opposing angled edge surfaces 32 joined by edges 34 . The edge 34 is preferably centered across the width of the product row formed in thetray 12 and extends perpendicular to the length of the tray. This configuration will center thewrap spring 30 relative to thetray 12 and will allow the spring to extend in a generally parallel manner relative to the length of the tray. In other words, the illustrated edge 34 of the notch 26 will allow thespring 30 to extend along the length of thetray 12 at or near the center of the product row formed by the tray. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the location and configuration of the notches may vary depending on the desired arrangement of the springs.
卷绕弹簧30可限定端部29，其构造为跨凹口26布置到边缘34上。在一方面，卷绕弹簧29的端部可以是V形的，且用作钩，从而端部29将绕边缘34围绕，卷绕弹簧的端部29的一部分在表面16的端部部分之下延伸。该构造允许卷绕弹簧容易地安装到托盘上。Thewrap spring 30 may define anend 29 that is configured to be disposed across the notch 26 onto the edge 34 . In one aspect, the end of thewrap spring 29 may be V-shaped and act as a hook so that theend 29 will wrap around the edge 34 with a portion of theend 29 of the wrap spring below the end portion of thesurface 16 extend. This configuration allows the coil spring to be easily mounted on the tray.
在另一方面，参考图7，弹簧端件60可添加到弹簧30的端部29，以辅助弹簧安装到系统。取决于托盘的构造和弹簧端部需要附连的表面，弹簧端件60可限定多个形状和构造。弹簧端件60可永久地附连至卷绕弹簧30的端部29，或其可以可拆除，以允许弹簧端件60的互换或更换。弹簧端件60可由塑料制成，且可限定一个或多个孔。孔61可用于接收卷绕弹簧30的端部29。第二孔63可用于接收从托盘12的表面16延伸的匹配舌部或安装构件65，如以下所述。通过该构造，卷绕弹簧30的端部29可操作地连接到托盘12。In another aspect, referring to Figure 7, aspring end piece 60 may be added to theend 29 of thespring 30 to assist in the installation of the spring into the system. Thespring end piece 60 may define a number of shapes and configurations depending on the configuration of the tray and the surface to which the spring end needs to be attached. Thespring end piece 60 may be permanently attached to theend 29 of thewrap spring 30 , or it may be removable to allow interchange or replacement of thespring end piece 60 . Thespring end piece 60 may be made of plastic and may define one or more holes.Aperture 61 may be used to receiveend 29 ofwrap spring 30 . Thesecond hole 63 may be used to receive a mating tongue or mountingmember 65 extending from thesurface 16 of thetray 12, as described below. With this configuration, theend 29 of thewrap spring 30 is operably connected to thetray 12 .
在另一方面，卷绕弹簧的端部29可卡固配合到形成在表面16中的孔中，或可以其他方式插入和固定到托盘中的孔或开口，由此将卷绕弹簧30的端部29固定在位。On the other hand, the ends 29 of the wrap spring can be snap-fitted into holes formed in thesurface 16 or can be otherwise inserted and secured into holes or openings in the tray, thereby connecting the ends of thewrap spring 30Section 29 is fixed in place.
再次参考图1，分隔器18可还用于将产品分为排。分隔器18从表面16大体向上地延伸，且如图1所示，可定位在表面16的相对侧。替换地，分隔器18可定位在托盘12上的任何期望位置或定位至表面16。分隔器18可形成为与表面16一体的结构，或分隔器18可拆除，以便为系统提供附加的灵活性。取决于系统，分隔器可附连至前导轨或后导轨。分隔器18可限定多个构造，且可向上延伸任一期望的距离，以提供分隔器在要被售卖的产品排之间的期望高度。该高度可通过添加分隔器延伸件等而可调节。Referring again to Figure 1,dividers 18 may also be used to separate the product into rows.Dividers 18 extend generally upwardly fromsurface 16 and, as shown in FIG. 1 , may be positioned on opposite sides ofsurface 16 . Alternatively, thedivider 18 may be positioned at any desired location on thetray 12 or to thesurface 16 . Thedivider 18 may be formed as an integral structure with thesurface 16, or thedivider 18 may be removable to provide additional flexibility to the system. Depending on the system, the divider can be attached to the front rail or the rear rail. Thedividers 18 may define a number of configurations and may extend upwardly any desired distance to provide the desired height of the dividers between the rows of products to be vended. This height can be adjusted by adding divider extensions or the like.
定位在托盘12的前部处且在分隔器18之间延伸的可以是一个或多个产品保持构件44。产品保持构件44用作前保持壁或棒用于将产品保持在托盘12中，并防止产品从托盘12掉下。这些构件还构造为允许在托盘12中定位的最靠前的产品的容易移除。产品保持构件44可以是一个或多个曲线形保持肋，如图1所示。这些示出的保持肋可从一个分隔器延伸到另一个分隔器，由此连结分隔器。保持肋可还在分隔器之间部分地延伸，在图1中以肋46示出，还用于将产品保持在托盘中。替换地，如图6所示，产品保持构件44可以是在分隔器之间延伸的曲线形实心保持壁48。保持壁48可以是透明或半透明的以允许货架上的产品可视。在另一方面，保持壁48可还在分隔器18之间部分地延伸。在图11-15所示的又一实施例中，保持壁100可附连到托盘而没有连接到分隔器。在该实施例中，保持壁100可形成一开口102，其通过上部构件104、相对的弯曲侧壁106和底板构件110限定，所述侧壁又限定成角度边缘108。取决于系统，侧壁106可还以是直的，且不弯曲。卷绕弹簧的端部可还卡固到底板110中，或利用在此描述的任何技术以其他方式附连到托盘。本领域的技术人员容易意识到，产品保持构件44存在多个形状和构造，所示的构造是这些多个构造的仅作为示例的实施例。Positioned at the front of thetray 12 and extending between thedividers 18 may be one or moreproduct retention members 44 . Theproduct retaining member 44 acts as a front retaining wall or bar for retaining the product in thetray 12 and preventing the product from falling off thetray 12 . These members are also configured to allow easy removal of the frontmost product positioned in thetray 12 . Theproduct retention member 44 may be one or more curvilinear retention ribs, as shown in FIG. 1 . The illustrated retaining ribs may extend from one divider to another, thereby joining the dividers. Retention ribs may also extend partially between the dividers, shown asribs 46 in Figure 1, and also serve to retain the product in the tray. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 6, theproduct retention member 44 may be a curvilinearsolid retention wall 48 extending between the dividers.Retention wall 48 may be transparent or translucent to allow visibility of products on the shelf. In another aspect, the retainingwalls 48 may also extend partially between thedividers 18 . In yet another embodiment shown in Figures 11-15, the retainingwall 100 may be attached to the tray without being connected to the divider. In this embodiment, the retainingwall 100 may form anopening 102 defined by theupper member 104 , the opposingcurved side walls 106 and thefloor member 110 , which in turn define anangled edge 108 . Depending on the system, theside walls 106 may also be straight and not curved. The ends of the wrap springs may also be snapped into thebase plate 110 or otherwise attached to the tray using any of the techniques described herein. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate thatproduct retention member 44 exists in a variety of shapes and configurations, the configurations shown being exemplary embodiments only.
再次参考图1，示例性无轨顶推器机构14限定顶推器板50和顶推器底板52。顶推器板50和顶推器底板52可形成单个一体的结构，或可以是利用已知技术连结在一起的单独的结构。另外，顶推器板50和顶推器底板52可以由任何已知的适当塑料或金属材料制成。顶推器板和顶推器底板可利用任何已知的增强技术增强。Referring again to FIG. 1 , the exampletrackless ejector mechanism 14 defines anejector plate 50 and anejector base plate 52 . Theejector plate 50 and theejector base plate 52 may form a single unitary structure, or may be separate structures joined together using known techniques. Additionally, theejector plate 50 and theejector base plate 52 may be made of any known suitable plastic or metal material. The ejector plate and ejector base plate may be reinforced using any known reinforcement technique.
在一个方面，顶推器板50形成曲线形状的顶推器表面或面54，其被构造为匹配要被售卖的产品的形状，诸如容纳饮料的塑料瓶或罐，如图3-5所示。曲线形状的顶推器表面54允许顶推器保持与托盘中最后的产品中心对齐。该构造减小顶推器和分隔器壁之间的摩擦和拖拽。在替换方面，顶推器表面或面可以是平表面。在又一替换方面，平顶推器表面可以伴随有曲线形状的肋，其在顶推器板的顶部附近或在其上定位，且可用于将产品在托盘中定心和对齐，以与图1所示的曲线形顶推器表面54类似的方式。曲线形状的肋可限定允许柱形或类似形状的产品适当推入托盘中的其他形状和构造。广告、产品身份证明或其他产品信息可布置在顶推器表面54上。In one aspect, theejector plate 50 forms a curvilinear shaped ejector surface or face 54 that is configured to match the shape of the product to be sold, such as a plastic bottle or can containing a beverage, as shown in Figures 3-5 . The curved shape of the ejector surface 54 allows the ejector to remain aligned with the center of the last product in the tray. This configuration reduces friction and drag between the ejector and divider walls. In alternative aspects, the ejector surface or face may be a flat surface. In yet another alternative aspect, the flat ejector surface may be accompanied by curvilinear shaped ribs positioned near or on the top of the ejector plate and may be used to center and align the product in the tray to match Fig. 1 shows the curved ejector surface 54 in a similar manner. The curvilinear shaped ribs may define other shapes and configurations that allow cylindrical or similarly shaped products to be pushed properly into the tray. Advertisements, product identification, or other product information may be placed on the ejector surface 54 .
定位在顶推器表面或面54之后的可以是一个或多个支撑构件58，诸如肋、壁或角撑件。支撑构件58构造为支撑顶推器表面54，还将顶推器板50连接到顶推器底板52。如图5可见，定位在支撑构件58之间的是卷绕弹簧30，更具体地是卷绕端部57，其用于将顶推器板50沿托盘12向前推动，如现有技术所理解的那样。用于将卷绕弹簧操作地连接至顶推器板50的任何技术可以与本发明一起使用。Positioned behind the ejector surface or face 54 may be one ormore support members 58, such as ribs, walls, or gussets. Thesupport member 58 is configured to support the ejector surface 54 and also connect theejector plate 50 to theejector base plate 52 . As can be seen in FIG. 5, positioned between thesupport members 58 is thecoil spring 30, and more particularly thecoil end 57, which is used to push theejector plate 50 forward along thetray 12, as is known in the art understand it. Any technique for operatively connecting a wrap spring to theejector plate 50 can be used with the present invention.
如图1所示，顶推器底板52可定位在顶推器板50下方，且可向顶推器板的顶推器表面54前方延伸。顶推器底板52可以任何预定的角度延伸任何预定的距离。例如，顶推器底板52可大体垂直于顶推器表面54延伸。在示例实施例中，顶推器底板52可延伸一足够距离，以允许一个产品(诸如单个瓶或罐)布置在顶推器底板上。在另一方面，顶推器底板52可构造为允许多于一个产品布置在顶推器底板上。顶推器底板52可限定任何形状，包括所述圆形形状，且可限定顶推器底板的表面上的任何产品保持特征，诸如肋、壁等，以进一步将产品保持在顶推器底板上。As shown in FIG. 1 , theejector base plate 52 may be positioned below theejector plate 50 and may extend forward of the ejector surface 54 of the ejector plate. Theejector base plate 52 may extend any predetermined distance at any predetermined angle. For example, theejector base plate 52 may extend generally perpendicular to the ejector surface 54 . In an example embodiment, theejector floor 52 may extend a sufficient distance to allow a product, such as a single bottle or can, to be placed on the ejector floor. In another aspect, theejector floor 52 may be configured to allow more than one product to be placed on the ejector floor. Theejector floor 52 may define any shape, including the circular shape, and may define any product retention features on the surface of the ejector floor, such as ribs, walls, etc., to further retain product on the ejector floor .
如图2可见，顶推器底板52可限定细长通道、沟槽或凹下部分59，其尺寸、形状和构造可设置为安放卷绕弹簧30。在示例实施例中，通道或沟槽59可延伸跨底板52，且以相对于顶推器板50大体垂直的方式延伸。在替换方面，沟槽或通道可跨整个顶推器底板52或在其部分上延伸，如图19所示，这样的构造允许顶推器板50在托盘中的适当对齐和定位。沟槽59可限定深度，该深度匹配或超过卷绕弹簧30的厚度。通过该构造，卷绕弹簧30安放在顶推器底板表面处或其下方，从而产品没有直接安放在卷绕弹簧上，而是这个产品将安放在顶推器底板表面上。如图19所示，顶推器底板可包括孔和开口，碎屑或其他物体可通过其。替换地，底板可以是实心表面。As can be seen in FIG. 2 , theejector base plate 52 may define an elongated channel, groove or recess 59 , which may be sized, shaped and configured to receive thecoil spring 30 . In an example embodiment, the channels or grooves 59 may extend across thebottom plate 52 and extend in a generally perpendicular manner relative to theejector plate 50 . In alternative aspects, channels or channels may extend across theentire ejector floor 52 or over portions thereof, as shown in Figure 19, such a configuration allowing for proper alignment and positioning of theejector plate 50 in the tray. The grooves 59 may define a depth that matches or exceeds the thickness of thewrap spring 30 . With this configuration, thewrap spring 30 rests at or below the ejector floor surface so that the product does not rest directly on the coil spring, but rather the product will rest on the ejector floor surface. As shown in Figure 19, the ejector base plate may include holes and openings through which debris or other objects may pass. Alternatively, the base plate may be a solid surface.
在本发明的替换方面，如图16-20所示，适配器180可定位在表面16上。参考图16和17，适配器180可包括一个或多个凸起肋182，产品可安放在其上。凸起肋182可沿适配器180的长度纵向地延伸。适配器180可以是塑料材料(或任何其他适当材料)的平挤出部，其限定平表面184，一个或多个肋182从平表面184向外延伸。适配器180可限定圆端部185，且包括凹口或切掉部分186，卷绕弹簧可以通过或跨其延伸。圆的端部185可构造为匹配布置在托盘上的产品的形状。取决于要售卖的产品，其他形状的端部185、凹口186和适配器180可与本发明一起使用。适配器180可以是单独的可插入件，或替换地，与表面16一体形成的部件。In alternative aspects of the invention, as shown in FIGS. 16-20 , anadapter 180 may be positioned on thesurface 16 . 16 and 17, theadapter 180 may include one or more raisedribs 182 upon which the product may be seated. Raisedribs 182 may extend longitudinally along the length ofadapter 180 .Adapter 180 may be a flat extrusion of plastic material (or any other suitable material) that defines aflat surface 184 from which one ormore ribs 182 extend outwardly. Theadapter 180 may define arounded end 185 and include a notch orcutout 186 through which or across which the coil spring may extend. The rounded ends 185 may be configured to match the shape of the product arranged on the tray. Depending on the product to be sold, other shapes ofends 185,notches 186, andadapters 180 may be used with the present invention.Adapter 180 may be a separate insertable piece, or alternatively, a component integrally formed withsurface 16 .
参考图18，适配器180可容易地插入到表面16上，且在分隔器18之间。参考图19，一旦适配器180被安装，顶推器机构14可定位在适配器180顶部上，且可跨适配器180的肋182自由地滑动。卷绕弹簧30可以平行的方式在肋182之间延伸，且可安放在肋182的顶表面处或其下方，如图20更清晰可见。通过该构造，要被售卖的产品可安放在肋182上，且沿其滑动，而没有在卷绕弹簧30上。Referring to FIG. 18 , theadapter 180 can be easily inserted onto thesurface 16 and between thedividers 18 . Referring to FIG. 19 , once theadapter 180 is installed, theejector mechanism 14 can be positioned on top of theadapter 180 and can slide freely across theribs 182 of theadapter 180 . Thewrap spring 30 may extend between theribs 182 in a parallel fashion and may rest at or below the top surface of theribs 182, as more clearly seen in FIG. 20 . With this configuration, the product to be sold can rest on and slide along therib 182 without being on thewrap spring 30 .
在替换方面，肋182可以是一个或多个凸起带，或一系列指状件，其可用于辅助产品在表面16上的运动。在又一替换实施例中，肋182可以是产品移动构件，诸如运送器或一个或多个滚子或滚动构件，其允许产品跨滚动构件朝向产品展示系统前方滚动。示例性滚子组件包括2005年10月25日递交的受让给RTCIndustries,Inc,的美国专利申请序列号No.11/257,718，该申请在此通过引用被并入。如本领域技术人员所理解的，存在许多可行技术，其可与所述顶推器机构一起使用，用于辅助产品在货架或底板上的移动。In alternative aspects, theribs 182 may be one or more raised strips, or a series of fingers, which may be used to assist the movement of the product on thesurface 16 . In yet another alternate embodiment, therib 182 may be a product moving member, such as a conveyor or one or more rollers or rolling members that allow the product to roll across the rolling member toward the front of the product display system. Exemplary roller assemblies include US Patent Application Serial No. 11/257,718, filed October 25, 2005, assigned to RTC Industries, Inc, which is hereby incorporated by reference. As understood by those skilled in the art, there are many possible techniques that can be used with the ejector mechanism to assist in the movement of products on a shelf or floor.
顶推器底板52的下侧可以是沿表面16自由滑动的顺滑平表面。替换地，且与以上类似，顶推器底板52可包括带、运送器、滚子等，其将允许顶推器板沿表面滑动而又将顶推器底板从表面16上抬起。在另一替换实施例中，顶推器底板的下侧可构造有导轨安装构件，以允许顶推器安装到轨道或导轨，如本领域所理解的那样。The underside of theejector base plate 52 may be a smooth, flat surface that slides freely along thesurface 16 . Alternatively, and similar to the above, theejector floor 52 may include belts, conveyors, rollers, etc. that would allow the ejector plate to slide along the surface while lifting the ejector floor from thesurface 16 . In another alternative embodiment, the underside of the ejector base plate may be configured with rail mounting members to allow the ejector to be mounted to a track or rail, as understood in the art.
顶推器底板还限定凹口或切口部分62，卷绕弹簧30将通过其。卷绕弹簧30的端部29将通过凹口62并通过表面16的凹口26，并将使用上述任何技术安装至托盘。The ejector base plate also defines a notch or cutout portion 62 through which thecoil spring 30 will pass. Theend 29 of thewrap spring 30 will pass through the notch 62 and through the notch 26 of thesurface 16 and will be mounted to the tray using any of the techniques described above.
在使用中，随着顶推器机构14在托盘12中被向后推动，卷绕弹簧30的端部29将如上所述保持在位，弹簧30的卷绕端部57将开始在顶推器板50后面解卷绕。如果顶推器14被允许在托盘14中向前移动，诸如当产品从托盘前方移除时，弹簧30的卷绕端部57将卷绕，并将顶推器板50在托盘12中向前推动，由此促使产品朝向托盘前方推动。In use, as theejector mechanism 14 is pushed back in thetray 12, theend 29 of thecoil spring 30 will remain in place as described above, and thecoiled end 57 of thespring 30 will begin to rest on the ejector Theplate 50 is back unwound. If theejector 14 is allowed to move forward in thetray 14 , such as when product is removed from the front of the tray, thecoiled end 57 of thespring 30 will wrap and push theejector plate 50 forward in thetray 12 push, thereby causing the product to be pushed towards the front of the tray.
在替换实施例中，卷绕弹簧30可在顶推器底板52之下和下方延伸，与在顶推器底板上方和跨其相对，如附图所示。通过该构造，沟槽59和凹口62可以是不必须的。In an alternate embodiment, thewrap spring 30 may extend below and below theejector floor 52, as opposed to above and across the ejector floor, as shown in the figures. With this configuration, grooves 59 and notches 62 may be unnecessary.
卷绕弹簧30可以是任何偏置元件，包括但不限于，通常与顶推器系统一起使用的扁平弹簧。本发明可使用一个或多个卷绕弹簧，以向前推动顶推器机构14，这取决于期望应用。弹簧30的卷绕张紧力可也取决于特定应用变化。Thecoil spring 30 may be any biasing element including, but not limited to, flat springs commonly used with ejector systems. The present invention may use one or more coil springs to push theejector mechanism 14 forward, depending on the desired application. The winding tension of thespring 30 may also vary depending on the particular application.
参考图2，无轨顶推器机构14示出为安装至托盘12。如所示，顶推器机构14在托盘12中装配在分隔器18之间。卷绕弹簧30的端部29在顶推器底板中延伸通过凹口，并安装至托盘，如上所述。在使用中，顶推器机构14将沿托盘12的表面16滑动，而没有使用轨道、导轨或引导件。如图2所示，顶推器机构14示出在向前位置。Referring to FIG. 2 , thetrackless ejector mechanism 14 is shown mounted to thetray 12 . As shown, theejector mechanism 14 fits between thedividers 18 in thetray 12 . The ends 29 of the wrap springs 30 extend through notches in the ejector base plate and are mounted to the tray, as described above. In use, theejector mechanism 14 will slide along thesurface 16 of thetray 12 without the use of rails, rails or guides. As shown in Figure 2, theejector mechanism 14 is shown in the forward position.
参考图3，顶推器机构14示出为在售卖系统10中售卖一个产品70。产品通过产品保持构件44被防止从托盘中离开。产品70可以是要被售卖的任何产品，包括所示的软饮料瓶。如该图可见，产品70安放于顶推器底板52和卷绕弹簧30上，该卷绕弹簧在产品下方延伸。底板52上的产品的重量和产品跨弹簧30的定位防止板50在托盘12中翻转。Referring to FIG. 3 , theejector mechanism 14 is shown vending aproduct 70 in thevending system 10 . The product is prevented from leaving the tray by theproduct retaining member 44 .Product 70 may be any product to be sold, including the shown soft drink bottle. As can be seen in this figure, theproduct 70 rests on theejector base plate 52 and thecoil spring 30, which extends below the product. The weight of the product on thebottom plate 52 and the positioning of the product across thesprings 30 prevent theplate 50 from tipping over in thetray 12 .
参考图4，顶推器机构14示出为在售卖系统10中售卖多个产品70。如该图可见，靠近顶推器板50的产品安放于顶推器底板52和卷绕弹簧30上，该卷绕弹簧在产品下方延伸。另一产品将安放于卷绕弹簧30上，该卷绕弹簧在这些产品下方延伸。替换地，适配器180可定位在系统中，在该情况下，产品可安放于适配器的肋182上，而不是卷绕弹簧上。再次，顶推器底板52上的产品的重量和产品跨弹簧30的定位防止板50在托盘12中翻转。在使用中，随着一个产品从靠近产品保持构件44的托盘前方移除，顶推器机构14(通过推压卷绕弹簧30)将使其余产品在托盘12中向前推动，直到最靠前的产品接触产品保持构件44。随着另外的产品被移除，顶推器机构14将继续朝向产品保持构件44推动其余产品。Referring to FIG. 4 , theejector mechanism 14 is shown vending a plurality ofproducts 70 in thevending system 10 . As can be seen in this figure, the product near theejector plate 50 rests on theejector base plate 52 and thewrap spring 30, which extends below the product. Another product will rest on thecoil spring 30, which extends below these products. Alternatively, theadapter 180 may be positioned in the system, in which case the product may rest on theribs 182 of the adapter, rather than the coil spring. Again, the weight of the product on theejector floor 52 and the positioning of the product across thesprings 30 prevent theplate 50 from tipping over in thetray 12 . In use, as one product is removed from the front of the tray near theproduct holding member 44, the ejector mechanism 14 (by urging the coil spring 30) will push the remaining products forward in thetray 12 until the most forward The product contacts theproduct holding member 44 . As additional product is removed, theejector mechanism 14 will continue to push the remaining product toward theproduct retention member 44 .
参考图5，顶推器机构14的后视图示出在售卖系统10中售卖多个产品70的顶推器机构14。再次，靠近顶推器板50的产品安放于顶推器底板52和卷绕弹簧30上，该卷绕弹簧在产品下方延伸。另一产品将安放于卷绕弹簧上，该卷绕弹簧在这些产品下方延伸。替换地，适配器180可定位在系统中，在该情况下，产品可安放于适配器的肋182上，而不是卷绕弹簧上。随着一个产品从靠近产品保持构件44的托盘前方移除，弹簧30的卷绕端部将在托盘12中向前推压顶推器机构14的顶推器板50，直到最靠前的产品接触产品保持构件44。如该图可见，卷绕端部57可位于两个支撑构件58之间。支撑构件将使卷绕弹簧保持在这些构件之间。如该图可见，顶推器底板52可还在支撑构件58下方延伸。Referring to FIG. 5 , a rear view of theejector mechanism 14 shows theejector mechanism 14 vending a plurality ofproducts 70 in thevending system 10 . Again, the product near theejector plate 50 rests on theejector base plate 52 and thecoil spring 30, which extends below the product. Another product will rest on a coil spring that extends below these products. Alternatively, theadapter 180 may be positioned in the system, in which case the product may rest on theribs 182 of the adapter, rather than the coil spring. As a product is removed from the front of the tray near theproduct holding member 44, the coiled end of thespring 30 will push theejector plate 50 of theejector mechanism 14 forward in thetray 12 until the frontmost product contactsProduct holding member 44 . As can be seen in this figure, thecoiled end 57 may be located between the twosupport members 58 . The support members will hold the wrap spring between these members. As can be seen in this figure, theejector floor 52 may also extend below thesupport member 58 .
参考图6，示出顶推器托盘的示例性实施例。通过该实施例，多个托盘12可形成为单个多托盘组件30。多托盘可具有与分隔器18共用的底板，所述分隔器从底板向上延伸，以产生所述多个托盘或排。在该实施例中，产品保持构件44可以是实心构件，其在两个分隔器之间延伸，如上所述。一个或多个多托盘组件80可以利用任何已知技术并排的方式联接或连结到一起，包括夹持件、榫合、紧固件等。通过该构造，可提供多排产品用于售卖多个产品。Referring to Figure 6, an exemplary embodiment of an ejector tray is shown. With this embodiment,multiple trays 12 may be formed into a singlemulti-tray assembly 30 . Multiple trays may have a common floor withdividers 18 extending upwardly from the floor to create the multiple trays or rows. In this embodiment, theproduct retention member 44 may be a solid member that extends between the two dividers, as described above. One or moremulti-tray assemblies 80 may be coupled or joined together side-by-side using any known technique, including clips, dovetails, fasteners, and the like. With this configuration, multiple rows of products can be provided for selling multiple products.
如上所述，如上所述，无轨顶推器机构14可与重力供给系统一体使用，即，具有安装在斜面上以允许重力辅助产品的托盘或产品通道的系统。替换地，无轨顶推器机构14可与安装在非斜面或以水平方式安装的系统一起使用，其中，重力为产品售卖提供小辅助或不提供辅助。无轨顶推器机构14可还用于推动不同形状的产品。As noted above, thetrackless ejector mechanism 14 may be used in conjunction with a gravity feed system, ie, a system having a tray or product channel mounted on a ramp to allow gravity assisted product passage. Alternatively, thetrackless ejector mechanism 14 may be used with a system mounted on a non-inclined surface or in a horizontal manner, where gravity provides little or no assistance to product vending. Thetrackless ejector mechanism 14 can also be used to push products of different shapes.
图7示出可与售卖系统一起使用的卷绕弹簧30的端部29的示例端件60。如所示，端件60限定用于接收卷绕弹簧的端部29的孔61，和用于安装到托盘表面16的孔63。如图7可见，在替换实施例的一个方面，在表面16下方延伸的可以是舌部或安装构件65，其可构造为与孔63匹配，并将端件60卡固配到到舌部65和由此到表面16。FIG. 7 shows anexample end piece 60 of theend 29 of thewrap spring 30 that may be used with the vending system. As shown, theend piece 60 defines ahole 61 for receiving theend 29 of the coil spring, and ahole 63 for mounting to thetray surface 16 . As seen in FIG. 7 , in one aspect of an alternate embodiment, extending belowsurface 16 may be a tongue or mountingmember 65 that may be configured to mate withaperture 63 and snap-fit end piece 60 totongue 65 and thus to surface 16.
参考图8，图7的示例端件60显示为安装到舌部或安装构件65。舌部65可包括细长向外延伸的肋67，其用于将端件60卡固到舌部65。本领域技术人员应意识到，可使用其他技术，将端件60安装到表面16，且所示技术仅是一个这样的技术的示例性实施例。Referring to FIG. 8 , theexample end piece 60 of FIG. 7 is shown mounted to a tongue or mountingmember 65 .Tongue 65 may include elongated outwardly extendingribs 67 for snappingend piece 60 totongue 65 . Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other techniques may be used to mount theend piece 60 to thesurface 16 and that the technique shown is merely an exemplary embodiment of one such technique.
参考图9，示例性端件60显示为以卡固配的方式完全安装至表面16，和更具体地，安装到托盘12的表面16的端部部分24。并且示出将卷绕弹簧30的端部29安装到端件60的孔61。如图9所示，卷绕弹簧的端部29可插入到孔61中。孔61构造为接收卷绕弹簧的端部29和将端部29保持在位，并在期望将卷绕弹簧与端件断开连接以将顶推器机构14从系统移除的情况下，允许卷绕弹簧的端部29从孔61移除。Referring to FIG. 9 , theexemplary end piece 60 is shown fully mounted to thesurface 16 , and more particularly, to the end portion 24 of thesurface 16 of thetray 12 , in a snap-fit manner. Also shown is thehole 61 for mounting theend 29 of thewrap spring 30 to theend piece 60 . As shown in FIG. 9 , theend 29 of the wrap spring can be inserted into thehole 61 . Thehole 61 is configured to receive and hold theend 29 of the coil spring in place and to allow for the removal of theejector mechanism 14 from the system in the event that it is desired to disconnect the coil spring from the end piece Theend 29 of the wrap spring is removed from thehole 61 .
参考图10，示出卷绕弹簧的端部29，其完全安装至示例性端件60。如该图所见，卷绕弹簧30现操作地连接至托盘12的表面16。因此，顶推器机构14现在安装到托盘12。Referring to FIG. 10 , theend 29 of the wrap spring is shown fully mounted to theexemplary end piece 60 . As seen in this figure, thewrap spring 30 is now operatively connected to thesurface 16 of thetray 12 . Thus, theejector mechanism 14 is now mounted to thetray 12 .
参考图21-27，显示用于将卷绕弹簧30的端部29安装到售卖展示系统的替换技术。安装构件130可用于将卷绕弹簧的端部29安装到系统的底板131。对于包括间隔开的滑动导轨132(通过连接肋134连结在一起(图26-27))的那些系统，安装构件130可卡固配合或以其他方式安装在底板131上，且在滑动导轨132之间。安装构件将保持卷绕弹簧的端部在位且将其保持至系统的底板。21-27, an alternative technique for mounting theend 29 of thewrap spring 30 to the vending display system is shown. The mountingmember 130 may be used to mount theend 29 of the wrap spring to thebase plate 131 of the system. For those systems that include spaced slide rails 132 joined together by connecting ribs 134 (FIGS. 26-27), mountingmembers 130 may be snap-fit or otherwise mounted onbase plate 131 and between slide rails 132. between. The mounting member will hold the ends of the coil springs in place and to the bottom plate of the system.
参考图22-23，安装构件130可包括在构件130一或多侧上的一个或多个腿136。腿可构造为卡固配合到导轨132的下方，以由此将安装构件130保持到系统的底板。腿136可包括腿端部137，其限定L形或成角度表面，所述表面构造为接触导轨132的下方，并防止安装构件130从底板举起，除非是通过故意将腿从导轨132下侧弯曲出来。腿136可接触连接肋134，其防止安装构件130相对于底板的可滑动运动。参考图26，安装构件130示出为安装到系统底板，且更具体地到导轨。图27示出安装构件130，随着顶推器板141从系统前部拉离，该安装构件保持在位。安装构件130可利用其它技术连接到该类型的系统底板131。例如，单独的安装夹持件、一个或多个紧固件、粘合剂或其他技术可用于将安装构件130固定至底板131。Referring to FIGS. 22-23 , the mountingmember 130 may include one ormore legs 136 on one or more sides of themember 130 . The legs may be configured to snap fit under therails 132 to thereby retain the mountingmember 130 to the bottom plate of the system. Thelegs 136 may include leg ends 137 that define L-shaped or angled surfaces configured to contact the underside of therails 132 and prevent the mountingmember 130 from being lifted from the base plate unless by intentionally removing the legs from the underside of therails 132 Bend out.Legs 136 may contact connectingribs 134, which prevent slidable movement of mountingmember 130 relative to the base plate. Referring to Figure 26, the mountingmember 130 is shown mounted to the system backplane, and more particularly to the rails. Figure 27 shows the mountingmember 130, which remains in place as theejector plate 141 is pulled away from the front of the system. Mountingmember 130 may be attached to this type ofsystem backplane 131 using other techniques. For example, a separate mounting clip, one or more fasteners, adhesives, or other techniques may be used to secure the mountingmember 130 to thebase plate 131 .
参考图22-23，安装构件130可还包括孔或开口或切槽138，其将接收弹簧的端部29。弹簧可利用在此描述的任何技术或其他技术安装。孔138和安装构件130的构造将弹簧在安装构件130上保持在位，类似于上述技术。22-23, the mountingmember 130 may further include a hole or opening or slot 138 that will receive theend 29 of the spring. The spring may be installed using any of the techniques described herein or other techniques. The configuration ofhole 138 and mountingmember 130 holds the spring in place on mountingmember 130, similar to the techniques described above.
安装构件130可还在顶表面上包括滑动肋139，其允许其上的产品在安装构件安装到系统底板之后更容易地跨安装构件滑动。安装构件130可还包括细长的平本体140，其在腿136的位置前方延伸，以在安装到系统底板之后为安装构件130提供稳定性。The mountingmember 130 may also include slidingribs 139 on the top surface that allow products thereon to more easily slide across the mounting member after the mounting member is mounted to the system backplane. The mountingmember 130 may also include an elongatedflat body 140 extending forward of the location of thelegs 136 to provide stability for the mountingmember 130 after mounting to a system chassis.
参考图24-25和27，顶推器板或顶推器机构141可包括顶推器面143，其构造为匹配其推动的产品的形状。如所示，顶推器面143可以是曲线形状，以匹配瓶或其他柱形物体的形状。顶推器板141可还包括顶推器底板145，起类似于上述顶推器底板构造。顶推器底板145可还包括弹簧套筒147，其接收卷绕弹簧30，以遮盖和保护弹簧。弹簧套筒147可部分或完全地跨顶推器底板145沿弹簧30的方向延伸。弹簧套筒147可具有相对较短的高度和平表面149，以允许产品安放于其上，而没有产品的明显突出或倾斜。24-25 and 27, the ejector plate orejector mechanism 141 may include anejector face 143 configured to match the shape of the product it pushes. As shown, theejector face 143 may be curved to match the shape of a bottle or other cylindrical object. Theejector plate 141 may also include anejector base plate 145, similarly constructed as the ejector base plate described above. Theejector base plate 145 may also include aspring sleeve 147 that receives thecoil spring 30 to cover and protect the spring. Thespring sleeve 147 may extend partially or fully in the direction of thespring 30 across theejector base plate 145 . Thespring sleeve 147 may have a relatively short height and flat surface 149 to allow the product to sit thereon without significant protrusion or inclination of the product.
顶推器板141可定位在底板131的顶部，以在表面顶部滑动，如上所述。顶推器板可定位在两个产品分隔器壁153之间，所述壁通过产品保持构件155连结在一起。额外的产品保持构件157可从产品分隔器向外延伸。Theejector plate 141 may be positioned on top of thebase plate 131 to slide over the top of the surface, as described above. The ejector plate can be positioned between twoproduct divider walls 153 , which are joined together byproduct retention members 155 . Additional product retention members 157 may extend outwardly from the product divider.
参考图28和29，显示用于将卷绕弹簧30的端部29安装到售卖展示系统的又一替换技术。在该实施例中，端部29铆接到托盘216。Referring to Figures 28 and 29, yet another alternative technique for mounting theend 29 of thewrap spring 30 to the vending display system is shown. In this embodiment, theend 29 is riveted to thetray 216 .
参考图28-32，在替换实施例中，无轨顶推器系统可改装到现有货架组件230，其可具有已经构件在其中的产品分隔器。例如，在一个实施例中，无轨顶推器系统可改装到现有金属货架组件。参考图30-32，托盘或适配器216可具有滑动底板222，其尺寸可设置为货架234的单道，或尺寸设置为整个货架宽度。滑动底板222可包括多个凸起肋224，其有助于减少售卖的产品在托盘216上的摩擦。应理解，一个或多个凸起肋224可与滑动底板222一起使用。替换地，滑动底板222可是平的平面表面，而没有凸起肋。托盘或适配器216可类似于图16的适配器180构造。28-32, in an alternate embodiment, the trackless ejector system can be retrofitted to an existing shelf assembly 230, which can have product dividers already built into it. For example, in one embodiment, the trackless ejector system can be retrofitted to existing metal rack assemblies. Referring to Figures 30-32, the tray oradapter 216 may have a slidingfloor 222 that may be sized for a single lane of theshelf 234, or sized for the entire width of the shelf. The slidingfloor 222 may include a plurality of raisedribs 224 that help reduce friction of vended products on thetray 216 . It should be understood that one or more raisedribs 224 may be used with the slidingfloor 222 . Alternatively, the slidingfloor 222 may be a flat, planar surface without raised ribs. Tray oradapter 216 may be constructed similarly toadapter 180 of FIG. 16 .
如图28和30所示，卷绕弹簧30的端部29可经由铆钉229被铆接到托盘216的前端部228，或可通过任何其他附连技术附连。托盘216可通过适于特定货架的任何附连技术保持到货架。在一个实施例中，如图29-32所示，托盘216可包括一个或多个向外延伸的指状件或卡固件220，其可接合货架234的一个或多个单独的架杆232，以将托盘216保持在货架234上。指状件或卡固件220可沿托盘216的长度纵向地延伸，或可沿托盘的长度间隔开。卡固件220可用于将托盘216卡固到现有金属货架。如图29A和29B所示，卡固件220A和220B可限定多个允许托盘216卡固到货架的构造。图28-32所示的实施例允许无轨顶推器系统布置在现有货架系统中，诸如金属货架系统，作为对整个无轨拖杆组件的低成本替代方案。应理解，通过该实施例，可使用在此描述的任何顶推器机构。28 and 30, theend 29 of thewrap spring 30 may be riveted to thefront end 228 of thetray 216 viarivets 229, or may be attached by any other attachment technique. Thetray 216 may be retained to the shelf by any attachment technique suitable for the particular shelf. In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 29-32, thetray 216 may include one or more outwardly extending fingers or catches 220 that may engage one or more individual rack bars 232 of therack 234, to hold thetray 216 on theshelf 234 . The fingers or catches 220 may extend longitudinally along the length of thetray 216, or may be spaced apart along the length of the tray. Thesnap fasteners 220 can be used to snap thetrays 216 to existing metal shelves. As shown in Figures 29A and 29B, theclips 220A and 220B may define a number of configurations that allow thetray 216 to be clipped to the shelf. The embodiments shown in Figures 28-32 allow the trackless ejector system to be deployed in existing racking systems, such as metal racking systems, as a low-cost alternative to the entire trackless towbar assembly. It should be understood that with this embodiment, any of the ejector mechanisms described herein may be used.
如图33和44所示，在另一示例实施例中，展示管理系统包括一个或多个顶推器机构286、一个或多个分隔器266、一个或多个托盘306和一个或多个保持器250。顶推器机构286可以由顶推器板287和顶推器底板288形成。产品布置在顶推器底板288上，且经由分隔器266和顶推器板287滑动到展示管理系统。卷绕弹簧30朝向保持器250偏压顶推器机构286，从而产品移动到系统前部。33 and 44, in another example embodiment, a display management system includes one or moreejector mechanisms 286, one ormore dividers 266, one ormore trays 306, and one ormore retention device 250. Theejector mechanism 286 may be formed by theejector plate 287 and theejector base plate 288 . Products are placed on theejector floor 288 and slid to the display management system via thedivider 266 and theejector plate 287 . Thecoil spring 30 biases theejector mechanism 286 towards theretainer 250 so that the product moves to the front of the system.
在一个示例实施例中，如图33所示，卷绕弹簧30可安装至保持器250。替换地，卷绕弹簧30可安装到分隔器266，(还如图48和49所示)。卷绕弹簧30可直接安装到保持器250，如图33所示，或可经由单独的适配器252安装到保持器250，如图34所示。In one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 33 , thecoil spring 30 may be mounted to theretainer 250 . Alternatively, thewrap spring 30 may be mounted to thedivider 266, (also shown in Figures 48 and 49). Thecoil spring 30 may be mounted directly to theretainer 250, as shown in FIG. 33, or may be mounted to theretainer 250 via aseparate adapter 252, as shown in FIG.
如图35所示，适配器252具有靠近第一端部256的壁254。第一端部256具有弯曲部分262，其向上弯曲。适配器252的中间部分可设置有弯曲切槽260，其适于接收相应形状的弹簧端部(未示出)。As shown in FIG. 35 , theadapter 252 has awall 254 proximate thefirst end 256 . Thefirst end 256 has acurved portion 262 that curves upward. The middle portion of theadapter 252 may be provided with acurved cutout 260 adapted to receive a correspondingly shaped spring end (not shown).
卷绕弹簧30在一个端部处可固定至适配器252的中间部分。在示例实施例中，弯曲切槽260形状和尺寸对应于第一弹簧端部。另外，卷绕弹簧30的第一弹簧端部可卷边或弯曲，以提供额外的紧固。但是，任何足够的紧固方法可用于将卷绕弹簧30的第一弹簧端部固定至适配器252。Thewrap spring 30 may be secured to the middle portion of theadapter 252 at one end. In an example embodiment, thecurved cutout 260 is shaped and sized to correspond to the first spring end. Additionally, the first spring end of thewrap spring 30 may be crimped or bent to provide additional fastening. However, any sufficient fastening method may be used to secure the first spring end of thewrap spring 30 to theadapter 252 .
在一个示例实施例中，如图36和37所示，保持器250具有弯曲切槽284，其形状和尺寸对应于适配器252的弯曲部分262。弯曲切槽284延伸保持器的长度，以允许适配器252沿保持器250的长度的无限制定位。In one example embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 36 and 37 , theretainer 250 has acurved cutout 284 that corresponds in shape and size to thecurved portion 262 of theadapter 252 . Thecurved cutout 284 extends the length of the retainer to allow unrestricted positioning of theadapter 252 along the length of theretainer 250 .
为了将卷绕弹簧30的第一弹簧端部固定到保持器250，适配器252的弯曲部分262布置到保持器250的弯曲切槽284中。弯曲切槽284将适配器252和卷绕弹簧30的第一弹簧端部固定到保持器250，并提供展示系统的快速和容易组装。壁254为保持器250和适配器252之间的连接提供额外稳定性。但是，其他方法可用于将适配器252和/或卷绕弹簧30的第一弹簧端部固定到保持器250。To secure the first spring end of thewrap spring 30 to theretainer 250 , thecurved portion 262 of theadapter 252 is placed into thecurved cutout 284 of theretainer 250 . Thecurved cutout 284 secures theadapter 252 and the first spring end of thewrap spring 30 to theretainer 250 and provides for quick and easy assembly of the display system.Wall 254 provides additional stability for the connection betweenretainer 250 andadapter 252 . However, other methods may be used to secure theadapter 252 and/or the first spring end of thewrap spring 30 to theretainer 250 .
替换地，如图33和44所示，顶推器板287的卷绕弹簧30可直接安装到托盘306的前部。卷绕弹簧30的第一弹簧端部290设置有弯曲部分。弯曲部分从顶推器底板288向下弯曲，且适于被接收在凹部316(如图33所示)中，该凹部由分配托盘306的前表面的唇部318和保持器250限定。保持器250的垂直取向表面和唇部318间隔开，从而间隙形成在唇部250的前边缘和垂直取向表面之间。为了将卷绕弹簧30和顶推器机构286固定到组件，第一弹簧端部290插入到形成在唇部318的前边缘和保持器250的垂直取向表面之间的间隙中，并被布置在由分配托盘306的唇部318和保持器250限定的凹部316中。Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 33 and 44 , the coil springs 30 of theejector plate 287 may be mounted directly to the front of thetray 306 . Thefirst spring end 290 of thewrap spring 30 is provided with a curved portion. The curved portion curves downwardly from theejector base plate 288 and is adapted to be received in the recess 316 (shown in FIG. 33 ) defined by thelip 318 of the front surface of the dispensingtray 306 and theretainer 250 . The vertically oriented surface ofretainer 250 is spaced fromlip 318 such that a gap is formed between the front edge oflip 250 and the vertically oriented surface. To secure thewrap spring 30 and theejector mechanism 286 to the assembly, thefirst spring end 290 is inserted into the gap formed between the front edge of thelip 318 and the vertically oriented surface of theretainer 250, and is disposed on the In therecess 316 defined by thelip 318 of the dispensingtray 306 and theretainer 250 .
在图38、39、48和49所示的另一示例性实施例中，卷绕弹簧30可直接安装到分隔器266。另外，在该示例性实施例中，卷绕弹簧30可垂直于顶推器底板288安装，从而卷绕弹簧30卷绕所绕的轴线垂直于顶推器底板288。该取向具有防止顶推器板后歪的好处。第一弹簧端部290可设置有成角度部分292和端件部分296。在一个示例实施例中，成角度部分292可垂直于卷绕弹簧本体294弯曲。分隔器可设置有切槽298，其适于接收第一弹簧端部290的端件部分296。In another exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 38 , 39 , 48 and 49 , thecoil spring 30 may be mounted directly to thedivider 266 . Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment, thecoil spring 30 may be mounted perpendicular to theejector base plate 288 such that the axis about which thecoil spring 30 is wound is perpendicular to theejector base plate 288 . This orientation has the benefit of preventing the ejector plate from buckling. Thefirst spring end 290 may be provided with an angled portion 292 and anend piece portion 296 . In one example embodiment, the angled portion 292 may bend perpendicular to thewrap spring body 294 . The divider may be provided with acutout 298 adapted to receive theend piece portion 296 of thefirst spring end 290 .
为了将卷绕弹簧固定到分隔器，端件部分296插入到切槽298中。一旦端件部分296完全插入到切槽298中，成角度部分292接合切槽298，以便将第一弹簧端部290固定到分隔器266。To secure the wrap spring to the divider, theend piece portion 296 is inserted into theslot 298 . Onceend piece portion 296 is fully inserted intocutout 298 , angled portion 292 engagescutout 298 to securefirst spring end 290 todivider 266 .
如图33所示，可实施各种顶推器机构设计。顶推器板287可形成为平的，以容纳相应成形的产品。替换地，顶推器板286可具有弯曲的第一端部和平的第二端部。这有助于容纳具有不同尺寸直径的各种柱形产品，并付诸顶推器机构286的操作。在操作期间，顶推器机构286中的产品和弯曲第一端部一体使顶推器机构抵靠分隔器266，从而在张紧或操作期间，卷绕弹簧30保持平的抵靠保持第一弹簧端部290的分隔器266。这允许顶推器机构的更顺滑操作，且确保随着用户将产品从系统移除而更适当地分配产品。As shown in Figure 33, various ejector mechanism designs can be implemented. Theejector plate 287 may be formed flat to accommodate a correspondingly shaped product. Alternatively, theejector plate 286 may have a curved first end and a flat second end. This aids in accommodating a variety of cylindrical products with different size diameters and into operation of theejector mechanism 286 . During operation, the product in theejector mechanism 286 and the curved first end integrally hold the ejector mechanism against thedivider 266 so that during tension or operation, thewrap spring 30 remains flat against the first end.Separator 266 forspring end 290 . This allows for smoother operation of the ejector mechanism and ensures more proper dispensing of the product as the user removes it from the system.
在图40-41D所示的另一示例性实施例中，分隔器266之间的距离可被调整为容纳不同尺寸的容器。分隔器266可设置有连接部分272。连接部分272可设置有第一细长成角度表面268和第二细长成角度表面270。另外，连接部分272可设置有多个突出部274。如图41B所示，导轨可由齿278形成，其具有正表面280和侧表面282。In another exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 40-41D, the distance between thedividers 266 can be adjusted to accommodate containers of different sizes. Thedivider 266 may be provided with a connectingportion 272 . The connectingportion 272 may be provided with a first elongatedangled surface 268 and a second elongatedangled surface 270 . In addition, the connectingportion 272 may be provided with a plurality ofprotrusions 274 . As shown in FIG. 41B , the rail may be formed fromteeth 278 having afront surface 280 and aside surface 282 .
当组装时，如图41C所示，连接部分272接收在导轨的齿278之间。另外，细长成角度表面268和270和突出部274楔在齿278之间。还如图41C所示,细长成角度表面268和270接合正表面280，突出部274接合齿278的下表面。侧表面282接触连接部分272。When assembled, as shown in Figure 41C, the connectingportion 272 is received between theteeth 278 of the rail. Additionally, elongatedangled surfaces 268 and 270 andprotrusions 274 are wedged betweenteeth 278 . As also shown in FIG. 41C , the elongatedangled surfaces 268 and 270 engage thefront surface 280 and theprotrusions 274 engage the lower surface of theteeth 278 . Theside surface 282 contacts the connectingportion 272 .
在图42所示的示例性实施例中，托盘306设置有榫连接件。托盘306的第一侧308设置有舌部312，其适于适配在沟槽314内，该沟槽定位在托盘306的第二侧310。为了连接托盘，沟槽314与舌部312对齐，从而舌部312牢固地固定在沟槽314内。In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 42, thetray 306 is provided with tenon joints. The first side 308 of thetray 306 is provided with a tongue 312 adapted to fit within a groove 314 positioned on the second side 310 of thetray 306 . To attach the tray, the grooves 314 are aligned with the tongues 312 so that the tongues 312 are securely held within the grooves 314 .
在图43所示的示例性实施例中，托盘306构造为在前端部处接收保持器250。保持器可设置有矩形孔300，保持器设置有相应尺寸和形状的突出部302。为了将保持器250固定至托盘306，突出部302适配到孔300中，以将保持器在托盘306上锁定在位。In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 43, thetray 306 is configured to receive theretainer 250 at the front end. The retainer may be provided with arectangular hole 300 provided with a correspondingly sized and shaped protrusion 302 . To secure theretainer 250 to thetray 306 , the tabs 302 fit into theholes 300 to lock the retainer in place on thetray 306 .
如图45-47所示，在产品管理展示系统被组装之后，产品装填到系统中。通过调整分隔器266，各种不同产品尺寸和形状可装填到系统中。如图46和47所示，与顶推器板287结合的卷绕弹簧30朝向保持器250推动产品。随着用户将产品取出系统，顶推器板287推动其余产品，从而产品沿底板264滑动到保持器250。这确保所有产品保持在展示系统前部处。As shown in Figures 45-47, after the product management display system is assembled, products are loaded into the system. By adjusting thedivider 266, a variety of different product sizes and shapes can be loaded into the system. As shown in FIGS. 46 and 47 , thecoil spring 30 in combination with theejector plate 287 pushes the product toward theholder 250 . As the user removes the product from the system, theejector plate 287 pushes the remaining product so that the product slides along thebottom plate 264 to theholder 250 . This ensures that all products remain at the front of the display system.
如图50-52所示，产品管理展示系统400可设置为使得托盘402、404可彼此叠置。该实施例可大体包括第一托盘402、第二托盘404、第一间隔件406和第二间隔件408。As shown in Figures 50-52, the productmanagement display system 400 can be configured such that thetrays 402, 404 can be stacked on top of each other. This embodiment may generally include afirst tray 402 , asecond tray 404 , a first spacer 406 and a second spacer 408 .
托盘402、404每个设置为容纳要被分配的产品。第一托盘402和第二托盘404可每个设置有自由的保持器410、顶推器机构412、第一和第二引导壁以及卷绕弹簧414。Thetrays 402, 404 are each configured to hold the product to be dispensed. Thefirst tray 402 and thesecond tray 404 may each be provided with afree retainer 410 , an ejector mechanism 412 , first and second guide walls, and a coil spring 414 .
顶推器机构414以与上述的实施例相似的方式设置，从而当产品被移除时，其使产品沿托盘402、404表面滑动。另外，上述顶推器机构的任何替换设置可以可堆叠托盘设置实施。The ejector mechanism 414 is arranged in a similar manner to the embodiments described above so that it slides the product along the surfaces of thetrays 402, 404 as the product is removed. Additionally, any of the alternative arrangements of the ejector mechanisms described above may be implemented in a stackable tray arrangement.
为了提供容易的组装和拆卸，可堆叠产品管理展示系统可设置有榫连接或任何其他适合连接，诸如卡固连接、螺钉螺纹连接或铆接连接。第一和第二托盘设置有定位器416，用于将第一和第二间隔件406、408组装到第一和第二托盘402、404。第一和第二托盘402、404的每个可在它们各自的外表面上设置有插槽418，用于接收位于第一和第二间隔件406、408上的相应形状的定位器416。To provide easy assembly and disassembly, the stackable product management display system may be provided with tenon connections or any other suitable connections, such as snap-on connections, screw-thread connections or riveted connections. The first and second trays are provided with retainers 416 for assembling the first and second spacers 406 , 408 to the first andsecond trays 402 , 404 . Each of the first andsecond trays 402 , 404 may be provided with slots 418 on their respective outer surfaces for receiving correspondingly shaped retainers 416 on the first and second spacers 406 , 408 .
为了组装可堆叠产品管理展示系统，位于第一和第二间隔件406、408上的定位器416以锁定设置放置到第一和第二托盘402、404的外表面上的相应形状的插槽418。这提供可堆叠设置，其可结合上述任何实施例一起实施。To assemble the stackable product management display system, the locators 416 on the first and second spacers 406, 408 are placed in a locking arrangement into correspondingly shaped slots 418 on the outer surfaces of the first andsecond trays 402, 404 . This provides a stackable arrangement that can be implemented in conjunction with any of the above-described embodiments.
在图53-57所示的另一示例性实施例中，顶推器板500可直接安装到货架508并通过卷绕弹簧504端部保持到货架。顶推器板500将沿货架表面的顶部并在其上滑动。限定T形构造的一个或多个分隔器502可靠近顶推器板500定位。在替换方面，分隔器502的基部可定位在货架上，从而基部定位在顶推器板500下方。通过该构造，顶推器板500可沿分隔器的基部滑动。如果分隔器502定位为距离板500足够远，则板500将直接在货架508的表面上滑动。分隔器502可限定包括在此所述的构造的多种构造，并可利用任何已知的技术固定至货架，包括推销、锚定、紧固件、粘合剂等。In another exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 53-57 , theejector plate 500 may be mounted directly to theshelf 508 and held to the shelf by the ends of coil springs 504 . Theejector plate 500 will slide along and over the top of the shelf surface. One ormore dividers 502 defining a T-shaped configuration may be positioned proximate theejector plate 500 . In an alternative aspect, the base of thedivider 502 may be positioned on the shelf such that the base is positioned below theejector plate 500 . With this configuration, theejector plate 500 can slide along the base of the divider. If thedivider 502 is positioned far enough from thepanel 500, thepanel 500 will slide directly over the surface of theshelf 508. Thedivider 502 may define a variety of configurations including those described herein, and may be secured to the shelf using any known technique, including push-buttons, anchors, fasteners, adhesives, and the like.
在一个方面，卷绕弹簧504的端部510定位在货架508上的孔口或孔506中。端部510可限定弹簧端件，其可进一步限定允许弹簧端部通入孔506中并保持固定到孔的任何适当构造。例如，端部510的弹簧端件可限定钩状构造，其允许端部510绕孔506的边缘围绕。替换地，弹簧端件可限定一个或多个卡爪，其勾到孔506的边缘。其他弹簧端件构造也是可行的。In one aspect, theend 510 of thewrap spring 504 is positioned in an aperture orhole 506 on theshelf 508 .End 510 may define a spring end piece, which may further define any suitable configuration that allows the spring end to pass intobore 506 and remain secured to the bore. For example, the spring end piece of theend 510 may define a hook-like configuration that allows theend 510 to wrap around the edge of thehole 506 . Alternatively, the spring end piece may define one or more jaws that hook to the edge of thehole 506 . Other spring end piece configurations are also possible.
如图54所示，为了将弹簧504固定到货架508，紧固件512、销、锚定等可被使用。该紧固件512将为弹簧提供第二间隔开的锚定点，在弹簧504的整个操作期间，随着板500在货架508上前后移动，其将弹簧保持期望对齐。应意识到，取决于货架类型和货架上的现有孔的数量和间隔，甚至可以设置更多的锚定点。As shown in Figure 54, to secure thespring 504 to theshelf 508, fasteners 512, pins, anchors, etc. may be used. The fasteners 512 will provide second spaced anchor points for the springs, which will maintain the springs in the desired alignment as theplate 500 moves back and forth on theshelf 508 throughout the operation of thesprings 504 . It should be appreciated that even more anchor points may be provided depending on the type of shelf and the number and spacing of existing holes in the shelf.
参考图55-57，示出用于将板500的弹簧504安装到货架上的示例安装技术。如图55所示，卷绕弹簧504的端部510定位在货架508上的孔口或孔506中。端部510可限定在此所述的弹簧端件，以将端部510保持到孔506的边缘。如图56所示，弹簧504，其在该实施例中包括铆钉或柱514，降至货架，从而铆钉或柱514适配在货架上的另一孔506内。该铆钉或柱提供用于弹簧的另一锚定点。如图56和57所示，弹簧504可限定孔516，用于接收又一铆钉或柱518，以甚至进一步将弹簧504固定至货架。通过这些多个锚定点，弹簧504将固定到货架，且由此，板将固定到货架。并且，通过这些多个锚定点，在弹簧的整个操作期间，随着板在货架上前后移动，弹簧将保持期望的对齐。应理解，其他锚定技术可以将弹簧504的端部固定到货架，包括任何在此所述的技术，或在此所述的技术的组合。应意识到，如果货架没有预先存在的孔来锚定弹簧504，可在货架上的期望位置处钻出一个或多个孔。Referring to Figures 55-57, example mounting techniques for mounting thesprings 504 of theplate 500 to a shelf are shown. As shown in FIG. 55 , theends 510 of the wrap springs 504 are positioned in the apertures or holes 506 in theshelf 508 . Theend 510 may define a spring end piece as described herein to hold theend 510 to the edge of thehole 506 . As shown in Figure 56, thespring 504, which in this embodiment includes a rivet or post 514, is lowered to the shelf so that the rivet or post 514 fits within anotherhole 506 in the shelf. The rivet or post provides another anchor point for the spring. As shown in Figures 56 and 57, thespring 504 may define ahole 516 for receiving yet another rivet or post 518 to even further secure thespring 504 to the shelf. Through these multiple anchor points, thesprings 504 will be secured to the shelf, and thus, the panels will be secured to the shelf. And, with these multiple anchor points, the spring will maintain the desired alignment throughout its operation as the board moves back and forth on the shelf. It should be appreciated that other anchoring techniques may secure the ends of thesprings 504 to the shelf, including any of the techniques described herein, or a combination of the techniques described herein. It should be appreciated that if the shelf does not have pre-existing holes to anchor thesprings 504, one or more holes may be drilled at desired locations on the shelf.
通过图53-57所示的实施例，可以理解，无轨顶推器板可以最小努力或附加的安装零件直接改装到现有商店货架上。另外，该实施例可容易移除，以允许顶推器板在货架的任何位置重新定位，以容纳任何尺寸和类型的在货架上售卖的产品。本领域的技术人员还意识到，任何在此所述的顶推器板可利用在此所述的技术或通过在此所述的技术的任何组合直接安装到货架。From the embodiment shown in Figures 53-57, it will be appreciated that the trackless ejector plate can be retrofitted directly to existing store shelves with minimal effort or additional mounting hardware. Additionally, this embodiment is easily removable to allow the ejector plate to be repositioned anywhere on the shelf to accommodate any size and type of product sold on the shelf. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that any of the ejector plates described herein may be mounted directly to a shelf using or by any combination of the techniques described herein.
在图58所示的替换实施例中，展示管理系统包括一个或多个顶推器520、一个或多个分隔器550和前导轨580。分隔器550和前导轨580可安放于货架上。顶推器520可包括顶推器面522和顶推器底板524，如图59所示。顶推器520可分为非可调部分526和顶推器延伸件528。非可调部分526和顶推器延伸件528二者可限定一表面，其可用于接触货架上的产品。非可调部分526和顶推器延伸件528二者可限定类似的高度和深度。顶推器延伸件528可从与非可调部分526齐平且靠近的位置调节，如图59所示。顶推器延伸件528可朝向顶推器底板524向下指向，如图60所示。顶推器延伸件528可调节到各种位置，如图60所示，包括与顶推器底板524平行的位置和偏离顶推器底板524向上指向的位置和朝向顶推器底板524向下指向的位置。以该方式，顶推器520的宽度或高度可有效地延伸到更宽或更高产品。In the alternate embodiment shown in FIG. 58 , the display management system includes one ormore ejectors 520 , one ormore dividers 550 , and afront rail 580 .Dividers 550 andfront rails 580 may be placed on the shelves. Theejector 520 may include anejector face 522 and anejector base plate 524, as shown in FIG. 59 . Theejector 520 can be divided into a non-adjustable portion 526 and anejector extension 528 . Both the non-adjustable portion 526 and theejector extension 528 can define a surface that can be used to contact products on the shelf. Both the non-adjustable portion 526 and theejector extension 528 may define similar heights and depths. Theejector extension 528 is adjustable from a position flush with and proximate to the non-adjustable portion 526 as shown in FIG. 59 . Theejector extension 528 may point downward toward theejector base plate 524 as shown in FIG. 60 . Theejector extension 528 can be adjusted to various positions, as shown in FIG. 60 , including a position parallel to theejector base plate 524 and a position pointing upwardly away from theejector base plate 524 and pointing downwardly toward the ejector base plate 524 s position. In this manner, the width or height of theejector 520 can effectively extend to wider or taller products.
顶推器延伸件528可绕一轴线在顶推器520的上部部分上旋转。凹进的轮532(见图77)可在顶推器延伸件528后方定位。顶推器延伸件528包括凸伸部(见，例如图77中的凸伸部530)，其适配在凹进的轮532中的凹口中。随着顶推器延伸件528绕轴线旋转，凸伸部旋转到凹进的轮532中的凹口内的各个空间，类似于棘轮和掣爪机构。每个凹口表示用于顶推器延伸件528的单独位置。在每个单独位置，顶推器延伸件528可保持静止，从而需要力来将顶推器延伸件528移动到不同位置。在实施例的示例方面，顶推器延伸件可从靠近非可调部分526的第一位置移动到多个第二位置，所述第二位置可位于在相对于第一位置的大约180度范围内。调整程度可取决于凹进的轮上的凹口的数量、尺寸和间隔。顶推器延伸件可限定通过顶推器延伸件的壁的减重孔，以减少顶推器延伸件的重量，并减小绕顶推器延伸件的轴线产生的力矩。顶推器延伸件可限定光滑或有纹路的顶推器面。Theejector extension 528 is rotatable on the upper portion of theejector 520 about an axis. A recessed wheel 532 (see FIG. 77 ) can be positioned behind theejector extension 528 . Theejector extension 528 includes a projection (see, eg,projection 530 in FIG. 77 ) that fits in a recess in the recessedwheel 532 . As theejector extension 528 rotates about the axis, the male projections rotate into various spaces within the recesses in the recessedwheel 532, similar to a ratchet and pawl mechanism. Each notch represents a separate location for theejector extension 528 . In each individual position, theejector extension 528 may remain stationary, requiring force to move theejector extension 528 to the different positions. In an example aspect of an embodiment, the ejector extension is moveable from a first position proximate the non-adjustable portion 526 to a plurality of second positions that can be located at a range of approximately 180 degrees relative to the first position Inside. The degree of adjustment may depend on the number, size and spacing of the notches on the recessed wheel. The ejector extension may define a weight relief hole through the wall of the ejector extension to reduce the weight of the ejector extension and reduce the moment generated about the axis of the ejector extension. The ejector extensions may define smooth or textured ejector surfaces.
再次参考图59，偏置元件，诸如卷绕弹簧534，可保持在顶推器520的后部部分中。在一实施例中，卷绕弹簧534可靠近顶推器面522的非可调部分526定位。卷绕弹簧534可跨顶推器底板524延伸，如图59所示。在一实施例中，顶推器底板524可包括通道536，其中安放有卷绕弹簧534。通道536允许产品以与弹簧有限地接触安放在顶推器底板524上。在该实施例中,产品的重量搁置在顶推器底板524上。顶推器底板524还可包括没有通道的表面。Referring again to FIG. 59 , a biasing element, such as awrap spring 534 , may be retained in the rear portion of theejector 520 . In one embodiment, thewrap spring 534 may be positioned proximate the non-adjustable portion 526 of theejector face 522 . Thewrap spring 534 may extend across theejector base plate 524 as shown in FIG. 59 . In one embodiment, theejector base plate 524 may include a channel 536 in which thecoil spring 534 is seated. The channel 536 allows the product to rest on theejector base plate 524 with limited contact with the spring. In this embodiment, the weight of the product rests on theejector floor 524. Theejector base plate 524 may also include a surface without channels.
在一例子中，分隔器550可包括分隔器壁552、底板554和挡板556，如图59所示。在一例子中，分隔器550可不包括挡板。在一例子中，分隔器550可不包括底板。分隔器壁552可将分隔器底板554分为两个部分，559和551(见图78)，分隔器壁552每侧有一个部分。分隔器壁552还可在分隔器壁552的仅一侧具有分隔器底板554。如图77所示，分隔器壁552可从分隔器底板554垂直地延伸。分隔器底板554可以是平表面。在一实施例中，分隔器底板554可包括分隔器底板554的一部分上的通道。卷绕弹簧534可延伸跨分隔器底板554。在一实施例中，卷绕弹簧534可在分隔器底板554中的通道内延伸跨分隔器底板554。在该实施例中，产品将没有搁置在卷绕弹簧534，替代地将搁置在分隔器底板554靠近分隔器底板554中的通道的部分上。在另一实施例中，分隔器底板554不包括通道。在一例子中，单个顶推器520可位于分隔器底板554的一部分上，第二顶推器(见图84F)可位于分隔器底板554的第二部分上。由此，一个分隔器550可包含两个顶推器520，分隔器壁552每个有一个。In one example,divider 550 may includedivider walls 552,floor 554, and baffles 556, as shown in FIG. 59 . In one example,divider 550 may not include baffles. In one example, thedivider 550 may not include a bottom plate. Thedivider wall 552 may divide thedivider floor 554 into two sections, 559 and 551 (see Figure 78), one section on each side of thedivider wall 552. Thedivider wall 552 may also have adivider floor 554 on only one side of thedivider wall 552 . As shown in FIG. 77 , thedivider wall 552 may extend vertically from thedivider floor 554 . Thedivider floor 554 may be a flat surface. In an embodiment, thedivider floor 554 may include a channel on a portion of thedivider floor 554 . Thewrap spring 534 may extend across thedivider floor 554 . In one embodiment, the wrap springs 534 may extend across thedivider floor 554 within channels in thedivider floor 554 . In this embodiment, the product will not rest on thewrap spring 534 , but instead will rest on the portion of thedivider floor 554 proximate the channel in thedivider floor 554 . In another embodiment, thedivider floor 554 does not include channels. In one example, asingle ejector 520 can be located on a portion of thedivider floor 554 and a second ejector (see FIG. 84F ) can be located on a second portion of thedivider floor 554 . Thus, onedivider 550 may contain twopushers 520, one for eachdivider wall 552.
挡板556可构造为约束正被顶推器520和容纳在其中的偏置元件推动的产品。挡板556可位于分隔器壁552的前部处，如图59所示。挡板556可还位于分隔器壁的后部处，以防止产品在货架上的过多囤积。如图59和77所示，分隔器壁552可将挡板556分为两部分。挡板556可垂直于分隔器壁552的前端部。在一实施例中，挡板556、分隔器壁552和分隔器底板554是单个整合装置。这三个元件可还彼此一体。在一例子中，挡板与分隔器分开。在一例子中，挡板不与分隔器一体或并入其。在另一例子中，挡板构造为与分隔器接合。在一例子中，分隔器壁和分隔器底板是彼此分开的装置，且没有彼此一体或是单个整合装置的一部分。在一例子中，分隔器壁和分隔器底板构造为彼此接合。在另一例子中，挡板可连接至前导轨580或包括前导轨580的一部分。Baffle 556 may be configured to constrain product being pushed byejector 520 and the biasing element contained therein. Abaffle 556 may be located at the front of thedivider wall 552 as shown in FIG. 59 . Abaffle 556 may also be located at the rear of the divider wall to prevent excessive accumulation of product on the shelf. As shown in Figures 59 and 77, thedivider wall 552 can divide thebaffle 556 into two parts. Thebaffle 556 may be perpendicular to the front end of thedivider wall 552 . In one embodiment,baffle 556,divider wall 552, anddivider floor 554 are a single integrated device. These three elements may also be integral with each other. In one example, the baffle is separate from the divider. In one example, the baffle is not integral with or incorporated into the divider. In another example, the baffle is configured to engage the divider. In one example, the divider wall and the divider floor are separate devices from each other and are not integral with each other or part of a single integrated device. In one example, the divider wall and the divider floor are configured to engage each other. In another example, the baffle may be attached to or include a portion of thefront rail 580 .
如图61所示，卷绕弹簧534的端部557可定位在挡板556内。弹簧的端部557可与弹簧其余部分成角度地折叠。该角度可以是90度，或任何其他适当角度，其可小于或大于90度。卷绕弹簧的端部557则可布置到挡板556内的切槽558中。一旦在切槽558中，弹簧端部557将保持在位，且将辅助顶推器520朝向挡板556偏置。卷绕弹簧534的端部557可包括多个部分，每个具有弯曲部，所述弯曲部将卷绕弹簧端部的后一部分以一角度布置到卷绕弹簧的前一部分(未示出)。所述多个弯曲部可接合挡板556中的多个切槽或孔，或者分隔器550或前导轨580上的其他连接点。所述多个切槽或孔可顺应卷绕弹簧534的端部557中的所述多个弯曲部的形状。卷绕弹簧534可在一个端部处包括卡爪(未示出)。卷绕弹簧534中的卡爪可构造为防止卷绕弹簧534与顶推器520脱开，诸如，例如，当卷绕弹簧534伸展时。As shown in FIG. 61 , theend 557 of thewrap spring 534 may be positioned within thebaffle 556 . Theend 557 of the spring can be folded at an angle to the rest of the spring. The angle may be 90 degrees, or any other suitable angle, which may be less or greater than 90 degrees. Theend 557 of the wrap spring can then be placed into aslot 558 in thebaffle 556 . Once inslot 558 ,spring end 557 will remain in place and biasauxiliary ejector 520 towardbaffle 556 . Theend 557 of thewrap spring 534 may include a plurality of sections, each having a bend that places a rear portion of the wrap spring end at an angle to a forward portion (not shown) of the wrap spring. The plurality of bends may engage a plurality of slots or holes in thebaffle 556 , or other attachment points on thedivider 550 orfront rail 580 . The plurality of slots or holes may conform to the shape of the plurality of bends in theend 557 of thewrap spring 534 . Thewrap spring 534 may include a pawl (not shown) at one end. The pawls in thewrap spring 534 may be configured to prevent thewrap spring 534 from disengaging from theejector 520, such as, for example, when thewrap spring 534 is extended.
顶推器520可仅通过卷绕弹簧534连接至分隔器550。顶推器520可安放在分隔器底板554的顶部，且可跨分隔器底板滑动。顶推器520可构造为整个位于分隔器底板554上方，如图59所示，且没有在分隔器底板554之下。在该实施例中，在该实施例中，顶推器520可从分隔器底板554提起，如图62所示。安放在顶推器底板524上的产品的重力和质量将顶推器520保持在分隔器底板554上。安放在卷绕弹簧534上的产品也将顶推器520保持在分隔器底板554上。顶推器和分隔器之间唯一并入的连接可以是卷绕弹簧557的端部，其保持在挡板556中的切槽558内。分隔器壁552可用于随着顶推器520在分隔器底板554上前后移动而引导顶推器520，且反之亦然。Theejector 520 may be connected to thedivider 550 only by thecoil spring 534 . Theejector 520 can sit on top of thedivider floor 554 and can slide across the divider floor. Theejector 520 may be configured to lie entirely above thedivider floor 554, as shown in FIG. 59, and not below thedivider floor 554. In this embodiment, theejector 520 can be lifted from thedivider floor 554 as shown in FIG. 62 . The gravity and mass of the product resting on theejector floor 524 hold theejector 520 on thedivider floor 554 . The product resting on thewrap spring 534 also holds theejector 520 on thedivider floor 554 . The only incorporated connection between the ejector and the divider may be the end of thecoil spring 557 , which is held within thecutout 558 in thebaffle 556 .Divider wall 552 may be used to guideejector 520 as it moves back and forth ondivider floor 554, and vice versa.
分隔器550可在分隔器的下侧部分限定沟槽560或其他凹部。该沟槽560或其他凹部可以为放倒的“U”形，如图61所示，或可具有另外的形状。沟槽560或其他凹部可延伸跨分隔器550的下侧部分的整个宽度。在一例子中的沟槽560或其他凹部可沿分隔器的下侧部分的仅一部分宽度延伸。沟槽560或其他凹部可用于接合前导轨、托盘的前壁或其他结构。在此所用的术语凹部可以意味着沟槽、切槽、通道、凹坑、凹陷、或其他向内延伸的凹部。Thedivider 550 may define agroove 560 or other recess in the underside portion of the divider. Thegrooves 560 or other recesses may be in the shape of an inverted "U", as shown in Figure 61, or may have another shape. Thegrooves 560 or other recesses may extend across the entire width of the underside portion of thedivider 550 . Thegrooves 560 or other recesses in one example may extend along only a portion of the width of the underside portion of the divider.Grooves 560 or other recesses may be used to engage front rails, the front wall of the tray, or other structures. As used herein, the term recess may mean grooves, cuts, channels, dimples, depressions, or other inwardly extending recesses.
分隔器550还可限定多个齿562或其他突出部。齿562或其他突出部壳位于挡板556的前部部分。在图63所示的示例性实施例中，齿562可限定一系列向外延伸的成角度表面，其在一顶点处相遇或连结。如在此所用的，术语齿可意味着任何一致、不一致、连续、不连续、均匀间隔开或非均匀间隔开的向外延伸表面，其可以或可以不是成角度的，且可以或可以不在一顶点处相遇或连结。另外，齿可在一顶点处限定尖的、钝的、圆的、平的或多边形端部，或者任何其他适当形状。并且，限定齿的形状的表面可以是平的、凸的、凹的、光滑的或有纹路的，或任何其他适当构造。在一实施例中，齿562布置在自挡板556的前部部分的延伸部上。分隔器550还可限定弹性舌部或凸片564。齿562或其他突出部位于弹性凸片564上。当力施加到弹性凸片564时，齿562或其他突出部可沿力的方向移动。当力被去除时，齿或其他突出部将移动回到它们原始位置。如在此所用的术语突出部可意味着凸伸部、弹性凸片、舌部、隆起、一个或多个齿、脊、凸钮或其他向外延伸的突出部。多个齿可包括多个突出部，其中，齿向外延伸，且可包括多个凹部，所述凹部在向外延伸的所述多个齿的部分之间向内延伸。Thedivider 550 may also define a plurality ofteeth 562 or other protrusions.Teeth 562 or other protrusion housings are located on the front portion ofbaffle 556 . In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 63, theteeth 562 may define a series of outwardly extending angled surfaces that meet or join at an apex. As used herein, the term teeth may mean any uniform, non-uniform, continuous, discontinuous, uniformly spaced, or non-uniformly spaced outwardly extending surfaces, which may or may not be angled, and which may or may not be in a meet or join at the vertices. Additionally, the teeth may define pointed, blunt, rounded, flat or polygonal ends at an apex, or any other suitable shape. Also, the surfaces defining the shape of the teeth may be flat, convex, concave, smooth or textured, or any other suitable configuration. In one embodiment, theteeth 562 are arranged on an extension from the front portion of thebaffle 556 . Thedivider 550 may also define a resilient tongue ortab 564 .Teeth 562 or other protrusions are located onresilient tabs 564 . When a force is applied to theresilient tab 564, theteeth 562 or other protrusions can move in the direction of the force. When the force is removed, the teeth or other protrusions will move back to their original positions. The term protrusion as used herein may mean a protrusion, resilient tab, tongue, ridge, one or more teeth, ridges, knobs or other outwardly extending protrusions. The plurality of teeth may include a plurality of protrusions, wherein the teeth extend outwardly, and may include a plurality of recesses extending inwardly between portions of the plurality of teeth extending outwardly.
前导轨580可限定平面表面582、脊或舌部584或其他突出部或接合构件、通道或沟槽586或其他凹部或接合构件和多个齿588或其他接合构件。前导轨580的脊或舌部584或其他突出部或接合构件可构造为接合分隔器的沟槽560或其他凹部或接合构件。脊584或其他突出部或其他接合构件可适配在沟槽560或其他凹部或接合构件内，并阻止分隔器550沿垂直于脊584或前导轨580的方向或与脊584或前导轨580成一角度(即，非垂直)的方向移动。前导轨580的齿588或其他接合构件可以间隔开。前导轨580的齿588或其他接合构件可接合分隔器550的齿562或其他接合构件(该齿562在图63中示出)，以便防止分隔器沿与前导轨580平行的侧向方向移动。前导轨580的齿588或其他接合构件与分隔器550的齿562或其他接合构件接合，并防止分隔器550沿图65中的箭头“A”所示的侧向方向移动。在此所用的术语接合构件可意味着突出部、凹部、平面表面、近平面表面或其他可与结构部件接合的另一结构部件。前导轨可以是附连或联接至货架的单独结构。替换地，前导轨可以是托盘的限定前、后和相对侧壁的一个或多个的一部分。在该构造中，如在此所述的前导轨，可形成为托盘的前或后壁的一部分，且仍可实现本发明的目的。即，前导轨可形成为托盘壁(或附连至托盘壁)的一部分，且利用在此所述的任何各种技术接收和接合分隔器和顶推器机构。前导轨还不需要位于货架的绝对前部。前导轨可位于货架前部附近，或距离货架前部向后一距离处。在一例子中，前导轨可位于货架后部处或附近，偏离售卖展示系统的前部。在一例子中，货架前部可不包括导轨。Thefront rail 580 may define aplanar surface 582, ridges ortongues 584 or other protrusions or engagement members, channels orgrooves 586 or other recesses or engagement members and a plurality ofteeth 588 or other engagement members. The ridges ortongues 584 or other protrusions or engagement members of thefront rail 580 may be configured to engage thegrooves 560 or other recesses or engagement members of the divider.Ridges 584 or other protrusions or other engagement members may fit withingrooves 560 or other recesses or engagement members and preventdivider 550 in a direction perpendicular to or in line withspines 584 orfront rails 580 Angular (ie, non-perpendicular) direction movement. Theteeth 588 or other engagement members of thefront rail 580 may be spaced apart.Teeth 588 or other engagement members offront rail 580 may engageteeth 562 or other engagement members of divider 550 (theteeth 562 are shown in FIG. 63 ) to prevent movement of the divider in a lateral direction parallel tofront rail 580 .Teeth 588 or other engagement members offront rail 580 engageteeth 562 or other engagement members ofdivider 550 and preventdivider 550 from moving in the lateral direction shown by arrow "A" in FIG. 65 . As used herein, the term engagement member may mean a protrusion, recess, planar surface, near-planar surface, or another structural component that can engage with the structural component. The front rail may be a separate structure attached or coupled to the rack. Alternatively, the front rail may be part of one or more of the tray defining the front, rear and opposing side walls. In this configuration, the front rails, as described herein, can be formed as part of the front or rear wall of the tray and still achieve the objectives of the present invention. That is, the front rail may be formed as part of (or attached to) the tray wall and receive and engage the divider and ejector mechanisms using any of the various techniques described herein. The front rail also need not be located at the absolute front of the rack. The front rail may be located near the front of the rack, or at a distance rearward from the front of the rack. In one example, the front rails may be located at or near the rear of the shelf, offset from the front of the vending display system. In one example, the front of the shelf may not include rails.
当分隔器550的弹性凸片564被压下或力沿远离前导轨580中的齿588的方向置于弹性凸片上时，分隔器的齿562可与前导轨上的齿588脱开。当前导轨上的齿588和分隔器550上的弹性凸片564的齿562脱开时，分隔器550可沿前导轨580中的齿588的侧向方向(即，由图65中的箭头“A”所示的方向)移动。通过使用该弹性凸片564，包含在售卖系统10上的产品可以被重新布局设计。当分隔器550沿侧向方向移动时，分隔器不需要旋转。而是，分隔器550保持在与前导轨580的平面表面582平行的平面中。另外，分隔器550不需要被举起。分隔器550可简单地沿由图65中的箭头“A”所示的方向移动。Theteeth 562 of the divider can disengage from theteeth 588 on the front rail when theresilient tab 564 of thedivider 550 is depressed or the force rests on the resilient tab in a direction away from theteeth 588 in thefront rail 580 . When theteeth 588 on the front rail and theteeth 562 of theresilient tabs 564 on thedivider 550 are disengaged, thedivider 550 can move in the lateral direction of theteeth 588 in the front rail 580 (ie, indicated by arrow "A" in FIG. 65 ). ” in the direction shown). By using theelastic tabs 564, the products contained on thevending system 10 can be rearranged. When thedivider 550 is moved in the lateral direction, the divider does not need to be rotated. Rather, thedivider 550 remains in a plane parallel to theplanar surface 582 of thefront rail 580 . Additionally, thedivider 550 does not need to be lifted. Thedivider 550 can simply be moved in the direction shown by arrow "A" in FIG. 65 .
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨580和至少一个分隔器550，其构造为接合前导轨580。所述至少一个分隔器550包括挡板556，所述至少一个分隔器550还包括分隔器壁552。所述至少一个分隔器还包括分隔器底板554，其垂直于分隔器壁552，其中，分隔器底板554构造为保持产品。售卖展示系统还包括凸轮720，其联接至分隔器550，其中，凸轮720构造为第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当所述至少一个分隔器550与前导轨580接合且凸轮720处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550(a)沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向可移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨580的方向被固定。当所述至少一个分隔器550与前导轨580接合且凸轮720处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550(a)沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向固定，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨580的方向被固定。In one example, the vending display system includes afront rail 580 and at least onedivider 550 configured to engage thefront rail 580 . The at least onedivider 550 includes abaffle 556 and the at least onedivider 550 also includes adivider wall 552 . The at least one divider also includes adivider floor 554 perpendicular to thedivider wall 552, wherein thedivider floor 554 is configured to hold product. The vend display system also includes acam 720 coupled to thedivider 550, wherein thecam 720 is configured to move between a first position and a second position. When the at least onedivider 550 is engaged with thefront rail 580 and thecam 720 is in the first position, the at least onedivider 550 is movable (a) in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 and (b) along the The direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580 is fixed. When the at least onedivider 550 is engaged with thefront rail 580 and thecam 720 is in the second position, the at least onedivider 550 is fixed (a) in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 and (b) in a vertical direction It is fixed in the direction of thefront rail 580 .
在一例子中，凸轮720包括把手，用于在第一位置和第二位置之间旋转凸轮720。在另一例子中，凸轮720可包括把手，其允许凸轮720在第一位置和第二位置(未示出)之间滑动。凸轮720还可包括一个或多个凸轮壁，其构造为，当凸轮720处于第二位置时，接合前导轨580中的一个或多个沟槽壁。凸轮720还可包括多个凸轮齿，其构造为，当凸轮720处于第二位置时，接合前导轨580的表面上的多个前导轨齿。前导轨齿可以在前导轨580的内表面上。售卖展示系统还可包括顶推器机构，其具有顶推器表面、从顶推器表面向前延伸的顶推器底板以及具有卷绕端部和自由端部的卷绕弹簧。弹簧的卷绕端部可定位在顶推器表面后面，且顶推器机构可仅通过卷绕弹簧附连至售卖展示系统。挡板可构造为接收卷绕弹簧的自由端部。前导轨可限定前导轨沟槽，分隔器可限定分隔器脊，其构造为接合前导轨沟槽。In one example, thecam 720 includes a handle for rotating thecam 720 between a first position and a second position. In another example, thecam 720 may include a handle that allows thecam 720 to slide between a first position and a second position (not shown).Cam 720 may also include one or more cam walls configured to engage one or more groove walls infront rail 580 whencam 720 is in the second position. Thecam 720 may also include a plurality of cam teeth configured to engage the plurality of front rail teeth on the surface of thefront rail 580 when thecam 720 is in the second position. Front rail teeth may be on the inner surface offront rail 580 . The vend display system may also include an ejector mechanism having an ejector surface, an ejector base plate extending forwardly from the ejector surface, and a coil spring having a coiled end and a free end. The coiled end of the spring can be positioned behind the ejector surface, and the ejector mechanism can be attached to the vend display system only through the coiled spring. The baffle may be configured to receive the free end of the wrap spring. The front rail may define a front rail groove, and the divider may define a divider ridge configured to engage the front rail groove.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨580和多个分隔器550，分隔器被构造为附连至前导轨580，并将产品分为排。所述多个分隔器550的每个包括沿垂直于前导轨580的方向延伸的分隔器壁552、垂直于分隔器壁552的分隔器底板554，其中，分隔器底板554构造为保持产品，还包括联接至分隔器550的凸轮720，其中，凸轮720构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当所述多个分隔器550每个与前导轨580接合且用于所述多个分隔器550的每个分隔器的凸轮720处于第一位置时，所述多个分隔器550每个(a)沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向可移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨580的方向被固定。另外，当所述多个分隔器550每个与前导轨580接合且用于所述多个分隔器550的每个分隔器的凸轮720处于第二位置时，所述多个分隔器550每个(a)沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向固定，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨580的方向被固定。In one example, a vending display system includes afront rail 580 and a plurality ofdividers 550 configured to attach to thefront rail 580 and separate products into rows. Each of the plurality ofdividers 550 includes adivider wall 552 extending in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580, adivider floor 554 perpendicular to thedivider wall 552, wherein thedivider floor 554 is configured to hold product, and also Acam 720 coupled to thedivider 550 is included, wherein thecam 720 is configured to move between a first position and a second position. When each of the plurality ofdividers 550 is engaged with thefront rail 580 and thecam 720 for each of the plurality ofdividers 550 is in the first position, each of the plurality of dividers 550 (a ) is movable in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 , and (b) is fixed in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580 . Additionally, when each of the plurality ofdividers 550 is engaged with thefront rail 580 and thecam 720 for each of the plurality ofdividers 550 is in the second position, each of the plurality of dividers 550 (a) is secured in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 and (b) is secured in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580 .
在一例子中，所述多个分隔器550每个构造为，当产品定位在分隔器底板554上时，沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向移动。当用于所述多个分隔器550的每个分隔器的凸轮720处于第一位置时，在所述多个分隔器550的最外分隔器上的力导致所述多个分隔器550的每个沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向移动，其中，该力平行于前导轨580的方向，且垂直于最外分隔器的分隔器壁552。In one example, the plurality ofdividers 550 are each configured to move in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 when a product is positioned on thedivider floor 554 . When thecam 720 for each divider of the plurality ofdividers 550 is in the first position, the force on the outermost divider of the plurality ofdividers 550 causes each of the plurality ofdividers 550 to One moves in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580, wherein the force is parallel to the direction of thefront rail 580 and perpendicular to thedivider wall 552 of the outermost divider.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨580和至少一个分隔器550，分隔器被构造为附连至前导轨580，所述至少一个分隔器550包括挡板、沿垂直于前导轨的方向延伸的分隔器壁552、垂直于分隔器壁552的分隔器底板554，其中，分隔器壁552将分隔器底板554分为第一部分和第二部分，第一部分和第二部分的每个构造为保持产品。售卖展示系统还包括构造为沿第一部分的至少一部分滑动的第一顶推器机构、构造为沿第二部分的至少一部分滑动的第二顶推器机构，和联接至所述至少一个分隔器550的凸轮720，凸轮720构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当凸轮720处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550可沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向沿其移动，当凸轮720处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550抵抗沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向并沿其的移动。In one example, the vending display system includes afront rail 580 and at least onedivider 550 configured to be attached to thefront rail 580, the at least onedivider 550 including a baffle extending in a direction perpendicular to the front railA divider wall 552, adivider floor 554 perpendicular to thedivider wall 552, wherein thedivider wall 552 divides thedivider floor 554 into a first portion and a second portion, each of the first and second portions being configured to hold product. The vend display system also includes a first ejector mechanism configured to slide along at least a portion of the first portion, a second ejector mechanism configured to slide along at least a portion of the second portion, and coupled to the at least onedivider 550 Thecam 720 is configured to move between a first position and a second position. When thecam 720 is in the first position, the at least onedivider 550 is movable along a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580, and when thecam 720 is in the second position, the at least onedivider 550 resists movement along the parallel movement in and along the lateral direction of thefront rail 580 .
在一例子中，售卖展示系统的第一和第二顶推器机构的每个包括顶推器表面、从顶推器表面向前延伸的顶推器底板，以及具有卷绕端部和自由端部的卷绕弹簧，其中，卷绕端部定位在顶推器表面后方。第一和第二顶推器机构仅通过卷绕弹簧附连至售卖展示系统。所述至少一个分隔器可限定分隔器接合构件，所述至少一个前导轨可限定前导轨接合构件，分隔器接合构件可构造为接合前导轨接合构件。分隔器接合构件可在分隔器接合构件的至少一个表面上限定分隔器齿，前导轨接合构件可在前导轨接合构件的至少一个表面上限定前导轨齿。分隔器齿可构造为接合前导轨齿。In one example, each of the first and second ejector mechanisms of the vend display system includes an ejector surface, an ejector base plate extending forwardly from the ejector surface, and has a coiled end and a free end A coil spring of the top portion, wherein the coil end is positioned behind the ejector surface. The first and second ejector mechanisms are attached to the vend display system only by coil springs. The at least one divider may define a divider engagement member, the at least one front rail may define a front rail engagement member, and the divider engagement member may be configured to engage the front rail engagement member. The divider engagement member may define divider teeth on at least one surface of the divider engagement member, and the front rail engagement member may define front rail teeth on at least one surface of the front rail engagement member. The divider teeth may be configured to engage the front rail teeth.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨580和至少一个分隔器550，分隔器被构造为附连至前导轨580，所述至少一个分隔器550包括被构造为接合前导轨580的挡板、沿垂直于前导轨580的方向延伸的分隔器壁552、垂直于分隔器壁552的分隔器底板554，其中，分隔器底板554构造为保持产品。展示系统还可包括弹性凸片，其联接至分隔器550，其中，弹性凸片构造为第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当弹性凸片处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向固定。当弹性凸片处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550可沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向移动。In one example, the vending display system includes afront rail 580 and at least onedivider 550 configured to attach to thefront rail 580, the at least onedivider 550 including a baffle configured to engage thefront rail 580, Adivider wall 552 extending in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580, adivider floor 554 perpendicular to thedivider wall 552, wherein thedivider floor 554 is configured to hold the product. The display system may also include a resilient tab coupled to thedivider 550, wherein the resilient tab is configured to move between a first position and a second position. The at least onedivider 550 is fixed in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 when the resilient tab is in the first position. The at least onedivider 550 is movable in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 when the elastic tab is in the second position.
在一例子中，分隔器550包括多个齿，其构造为接合前导轨580。分隔器齿可构造为接合前导轨580上的相应齿。售卖展示系统的分隔器齿可构造为接合前导轨580上的弹性表面。In one example, thedivider 550 includes a plurality of teeth configured to engage thefront rail 580 . The divider teeth may be configured to engage corresponding teeth on thefront rail 580 . The divider teeth of the vending display system may be configured to engage a resilient surface on thefront rail 580 .
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨580，前导轨580包括至少一个第一突出部和至少一个第一凹部，和至少一个分隔器550，其构造为附连至前导轨580，所述至少一个分隔器550包括分隔器壁552和垂直于分隔器壁552的分隔器底板554，所述至少一个分隔器550还包括至少一个第二凹部和至少一个第二突出部，分隔器550的所述至少一个第二突出部构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间移动，当前导轨580的所述至少一个第一突出部与所述分隔器550的所述至少一个第二凹部接合且分隔器550的所述至少一个第二突出部处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550(a)沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向可移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨580的方向被固定。当前导轨的所述至少一个第一突出部与所述分隔器550的所述至少一个第二凹部接合且分隔器550的所述至少一个第二突出部处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550(a)抵抗沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向的移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨580的方向被固定。In one example, the vending display system includes afront rail 580 that includes at least one first protrusion and at least one first recess, and at least onedivider 550 configured to attach to thefront rail 580, the at least one Onedivider 550 includes adivider wall 552 and adivider floor 554 perpendicular to thedivider wall 552, the at least onedivider 550 further includes at least one second recess and at least one second protrusion, the The at least one second protrusion is configured to move between a first position and a second position, the at least one first protrusion of thecurrent rail 580 engages the at least one second recess of thedivider 550 and the divider When the at least one second protrusion of 550 is in the first position, the at least onedivider 550 is (a) movable in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 and (b) movable in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580. Orientation is fixed. When the at least one first protrusion of the front rail is engaged with the at least one second recess of thedivider 550 and the at least one second protrusion of thedivider 550 is in the second position, the at least one divider The catcher 550 (a) resists movement in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 and (b) is fixed in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580 .
在一例子中，分隔器550的所述至少一个第二突出部可包括凸轮720。前导轨580的所述至少一个第一凹部可包括沟槽。分隔器550的所述至少一个第二突出部可包括弹性凸片。前导轨580的所述至少一个第一凹部可包括舌部。前导轨580的所述至少一个第一凹部可包括多个齿。分隔器550的所述至少一个第二突出部可包括舌部。分隔器550的所述至少一个第二突出部可包括多个齿。售卖展示系统可还包括在前导轨580的所述至少一个第一突出部上的多个齿和在分隔器550的所述至少一个第二凹部上的多个齿。In one example, the at least one second protrusion of thedivider 550 may include thecam 720 . The at least one first recess of thefront rail 580 may include a groove. The at least one second protrusion of thedivider 550 may include an elastic tab. The at least one first recess of thefront rail 580 may include a tongue. The at least one first recess of thefront rail 580 may include a plurality of teeth. The at least one second protrusion of thedivider 550 may include a tongue. The at least one second protrusion of thedivider 550 may include a plurality of teeth. The vend display system may further include a plurality of teeth on the at least one first protrusion of thefront rail 580 and a plurality of teeth on the at least one second recess of thedivider 550 .
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨580，前导轨580包括至少一个第一突出部和至少一个第二突出部，前导轨580的所述至少一个第二突出部构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间移动。售卖展示系统还包括至少一个分隔器550，其构造为附连至前导轨580，所述至少一个分隔器550包括分隔器壁552和垂直于分隔器壁552的分隔器底板554，所述至少一个分隔器550还包括至少一个凹部。当前导轨580的所述至少一个第一突出部与所述分隔器550的所述至少一个凹部接合且前导轨580的所述至少一个第二突出部处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550(a)沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向可移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨580的方向被固定。当前导轨580的所述至少一个第一突出部与所述分隔器550的所述至少一个凹部接合且前导轨580的所述至少一个第二突出部处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550(a)沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向固定，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨580的方向被固定。In one example, the vending display system includes afront rail 580 that includes at least one first protrusion and at least one second protrusion, the at least one second protrusion of thefront rail 580 configured to be in the first position and move between the second positions. The vend display system also includes at least onedivider 550 configured to attach to thefront rail 580, the at least onedivider 550 including adivider wall 552 and adivider floor 554 perpendicular to thedivider wall 552, the at least onedivider 550 Thedivider 550 also includes at least one recess. When the at least one first protrusion of thefront rail 580 is engaged with the at least one recess of thedivider 550 and the at least one second protrusion of thefront rail 580 is in the first position, the at least onedivider 550 is (a) movable in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 and (b) fixed in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580 . When the at least one first protrusion of thefront rail 580 is engaged with the at least one recess of thedivider 550 and the at least one second protrusion of thefront rail 580 is in the second position, the at least one divider 550 (a) is secured in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 and (b) is secured in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580 .
在一例子中，前导轨580的所述至少一个第一凹部可包括舌部，分隔器550的所述至少一个凹部可包括沟槽。In one example, the at least one first recess of thefront rail 580 may comprise a tongue, and the at least one recess of thedivider 550 may comprise a groove.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨580，前导轨580包括第一突出部和第二突出部。卖展示系统还包括至少一个分隔器550，其构造为附连至前导轨580，所述至少一个分隔器550包括分隔器壁552和垂直于分隔器壁552的分隔器底板554，所述至少一个分隔器550还包括凹部和第三突出部。第二突出部或第三突出部的所述至少一个是可移动突出部，其在第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当前导轨580的第一突出部与分隔器550的凹部接合且可移动突出部处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550(a)沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向可移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨550的方向被固定。当前导轨580的第一突出部与分隔器550的凹部接合且可移动突出部处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550(a)沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向固定，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨550的方向被固定。In one example, the vending display system includes afront rail 580 that includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion. The display system also includes at least onedivider 550 configured to attach to thefront rail 580, the at least onedivider 550 including adivider wall 552 and adivider floor 554 perpendicular to thedivider wall 552, the at least onedivider 550 Thedivider 550 also includes a recess and a third protrusion. The at least one of the second protrusion or the third protrusion is a movable protrusion that moves between a first position and a second position. When the first protrusion of thefront rail 580 is engaged with the recess of thedivider 550 and the movable protrusion is in the first position, the at least one divider 550(a) is movable in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580, and (b) is fixed in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 550 . When the first protrusion of thefront rail 580 is engaged with the recess of thedivider 550 and the movable protrusion is in the second position, the at least one divider 550(a) is fixed in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580, and ( b) is fixed in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 550 .
在一例子中，售卖展示系统的可移动突出部可以是凸轮720或弹性凸片。前导轨580的第一突出部可以是舌部，分隔器550的凹部可以是沟槽。In one example, the movable tab of the vending display system may be acam 720 or a resilient tab. The first protrusion of thefront rail 580 may be a tongue, and the recess of thedivider 550 may be a groove.
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨580，前导轨580包括至少第一接合构件。售卖展示系统还包括至少一个分隔器550，其构造为附连至前导轨580，所述至少一个分隔器550包括分隔器壁552和垂直于分隔器壁的分隔器底板554，所述至少一个分隔器550还包括至少第二接合构件。售卖展示系统还包括第三接合构件，其构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当前导轨580的第一接合构件与分隔器550的第二接合构件接合且第三接合构件处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550(a)沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向可移动，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨550的方向被固定。当前导轨580的第一接合构件与分隔器550的第二接合构件接合且第三接合构件处于第二位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550(a)沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向固定，且(b)沿垂直于前导轨550的方向被固定。在一例子中，当前导轨580的第一接合构件与分隔器550的第二接合构件接合且第三接合构件处于第一位置时，所述至少一个分隔器550可沿货架平面(诸如图70和71所示的货架596)仅沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向移动；所述至少一个分隔器550沿货架平面沿着除了平行于前导轨580的方向之外的所有方向固定；所述至少一个分隔器550不沿货架平面扭转、倾斜、鱼尾式摆动；所述至少一个分隔器550保持垂直于前导轨580。In one example, the vending display system includes afront rail 580 that includes at least a first engagement member. The vend display system also includes at least onedivider 550 configured to attach to thefront rail 580, the at least onedivider 550 including adivider wall 552 and adivider floor 554 perpendicular to the divider wall, the at least onedivider 550 Thedevice 550 also includes at least a second engagement member. The vend display system also includes a third engagement member configured to move between the first position and the second position. The at least one divider 550(a) is movable in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 when the first engagement member of thefront rail 580 is engaged with the second engagement member of thedivider 550 and the third engagement member is in the first position move, and (b) be fixed in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 550 . When the first engagement member of thefront rail 580 is engaged with the second engagement member of thedivider 550 and the third engagement member is in the second position, the at least one divider 550(a) is fixed in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail, And (b) is fixed in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 550 . In one example, the at least onedivider 550 can be aligned along a shelf plane (such as FIGS. Theshelf 596 shown at 71) moves only in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580; the at least onedivider 550 is fixed along the shelf plane in all directions except the direction parallel to thefront rail 580; the at least onedivider 550 Onedivider 550 does not twist, tilt, fishtail along the shelf plane; the at least onedivider 550 remains perpendicular to thefront rail 580 .
在一例子中，第三接合构件可以是前导轨580的一部分或分隔器550的一部分。在一例子中，第三接合构件可包括凸轮720或接合表面。在一例子中，前导轨580的第一接合构件是突出部。售卖展示系统还可包括顶推器机构520，其具有顶推器表面528、从顶推器表面528向前延伸的顶推器底板524以及具有卷绕端部和自由端部的卷绕弹簧534。卷绕端部可定位在顶推器表面528后面，且顶推器机构520可仅通过卷绕弹簧534附连至售卖展示系统。售卖展示系统可还包括挡板，其构造为接收卷绕弹簧534的自由端部。In one example, the third engagement member may be part of thefront rail 580 or part of thedivider 550 . In one example, the third engagement member may include acam 720 or an engagement surface. In one example, the first engagement member of thefront rail 580 is a protrusion. The vend display system may also include anejector mechanism 520 having anejector surface 528, anejector base plate 524 extending forwardly from theejector surface 528, and acoil spring 534 having a coiled end and a free end . The coil end can be positioned behind theejector surface 528 and theejector mechanism 520 can be attached to the vend display system only by thecoil spring 534 . The vend display system may further include a baffle configured to receive the free end of thewrap spring 534 .
在一例子中，售卖展示系统包括前导轨580和至少一个分隔器550，分隔器被构造为接合前导轨580，所述至少一个分隔器550包括挡板556，所述至少一个分隔器还包括分隔器壁554、所述至少一个分隔器还包括垂直于分隔器壁554的分隔器底板552，其中，分隔器底板552构造为保持产品。售卖展示系统还包括凸轮720，其联接至分隔器550，其中，凸轮720构造为第一位置和第二位置之间移动。当所述至少一个分隔器550与前导轨580接合时，所述至少一个分隔器550可沿垂直于前导轨580的方向固定。当凸轮720处于第一位置时，凸轮720可抑制所述至少一个分隔器550沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向的移动。当凸轮720处于第二位置时，凸轮720可允许分隔器550沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向的移动。售卖展示系统可包括把手，用于在第一位置和第二位置之间旋转凸轮720。售卖展示系统可包括把手，用于在第一位置和第二位置(未示出)之间滑动凸轮720。In one example, the vending display system includes afront rail 580 and at least onedivider 550 configured to engage thefront rail 580, the at least onedivider 550 including abaffle 556, the at least one divider further comprising a divider Thedivider wall 554, the at least one divider further includes adivider floor 552 perpendicular to thedivider wall 554, wherein thedivider floor 552 is configured to hold the product. The vend display system also includes acam 720 coupled to thedivider 550, wherein thecam 720 is configured to move between a first position and a second position. When the at least onedivider 550 is engaged with thefront rail 580 , the at least onedivider 550 may be fixed in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580 . Thecam 720 may inhibit movement of the at least onedivider 550 in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 when thecam 720 is in the first position. Thecam 720 may allow movement of thedivider 550 in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 when thecam 720 is in the second position. The vend display system may include a handle for rotating thecam 720 between the first position and the second position. The vend display system may include a handle for sliding thecam 720 between a first position and a second position (not shown).
图67A-C示出一步接一步地将分隔器布置到前导轨中的方法的例子。开始时，如图67A所示，分隔器550降低到由前导轨580限定的通道586。使分隔器550下降到通道586的力导致分隔器550上的齿562接触前导轨580的顶部，并沿朝向分隔器550和离开前导轨580的方向移动，如图67B所示。分隔器550上的齿562可以是斜面齿，如图63所示。前导轨580包括凹部589，如图64所示，它们接合分隔器550上的齿562。这些凹部589通过前导轨580上的齿588分开。当分隔器550进一步下降到前导轨580上的通道586(如图67C所示)时，分隔器550的齿564移动超过前导轨580的顶部，并移动到前导轨580中的凹部589中。当分隔器550上的齿564在前导轨580中的凹部589中时，分隔器550处于接合位置，且不会在正常大小的力下沿侧向方向移动。Figures 67A-C show an example of a method of step-by-step arrangement of the dividers into the front rail. Initially, as shown in FIG. 67A , thedivider 550 is lowered into thechannel 586 defined by thefront rail 580 . The force that lowers thedivider 550 into thechannel 586 causes theteeth 562 on thedivider 550 to contact the top of thefront rail 580 and move in a direction toward thedivider 550 and away from thefront rail 580, as shown in Figure 67B.Teeth 562 ondivider 550 may be bevel teeth, as shown in FIG. 63 .Front rail 580 includesrecesses 589, as shown in FIG. 64, which engageteeth 562 ondivider 550. Theserecesses 589 are separated byteeth 588 on thefront rail 580 . Asdivider 550 descends further downchannel 586 on front rail 580 (as shown in FIG. 67C ),teeth 564 ofdivider 550 move past the top offront rail 580 and intorecesses 589 infront rail 580 . When theteeth 564 on thedivider 550 are in therecesses 589 in thefront rail 580, thedivider 550 is in the engaged position and will not move in the lateral direction under normal force.
在一例子中，图68A-C示出将分隔器一步接一步地放置在前导轨中的方法的另一实施例。在初始步骤中，如图68A所示，弹性舌部或凸片564手动地被向后推，导致凸片564上的齿562朝向分隔器550向后移动。轴式枢转部允许弹性舌部或凸片564保持在向后推的位置，且允许齿562保持在朝向分隔器550的位置。分隔器550然后布置为与前导轨580接触，如图68B所示。分隔器550的沟槽560接合前导轨580的脊或舌部584。此时，分隔器550可沿前导轨沿侧向方向移动，且可允许容易的重新布局设计。但是，分隔器550沿垂直于前导轨580(即，平行于分隔器550)的方向固定，且不可沿该方向移动，除非是分隔器550的沟槽560和前导轨580的脊或舌部584之间的非常小量的游隙。(垂直于前导轨地方方向在图86H中以箭头“B”表示。)该非常小量的游隙可不会被系统的用户察觉。当分隔器550与前导轨580接触时，分隔器550的沟槽560接合前导轨580的脊或舌部584，如图68B所示，分隔器550可沿货架的平面(货架在图70和71中以596表示)仅沿与前导轨580垂直的侧向方向(即，该方向由图65中的箭头“A”表示)移动。分隔器在正常操作力下沿着货架平面沿除了平行于前导轨580的方向以外的所有其他方向是固定且不可移动的。分隔器不能扭转、倾斜、鱼尾式摆动或以其他方式沿着货架平面沿除了平行于前导轨580的方向以外的方向移动。但是，分隔器550能够沿离开货架平面的方向移动，诸如由图87B中的箭头“C”所指示的方式。分隔器550，有或没有产品在分隔器底板554上，可沿之前通过图65中的箭头“A”指示的方向滑动，而不要求分隔器550被举起。在最后的步骤中，如图68C所示，弹性舌部或凸片564被手动向前拉离分隔器550。该运动导致前分隔器550上的齿562适配在前导轨580中的凹部589中。前导轨580中的凹部589通过前导轨中的齿588分开。当分隔器550的齿562与前导轨580中的凹部589和齿588接触时，分隔器550接合，且在正常大小的力的作用下不能沿侧向方向移动。In one example, Figures 68A-C illustrate another embodiment of a method of placing a divider in a front rail step by step. In an initial step, shown in FIG. 68A , the resilient tongue ortab 564 is manually pushed back, causing theteeth 562 on thetab 564 to move back toward thedivider 550 . Axial pivots allow resilient tongues ortabs 564 to remain in a pushed-back position andteeth 562 to remain in a position towarddivider 550 . Thedivider 550 is then placed in contact with thefront rail 580, as shown in Figure 68B. Thegrooves 560 of thedivider 550 engage the ridges ortongues 584 of thefront rail 580 . At this time, thedivider 550 can be moved in the lateral direction along the front rail, and can allow for easy rearrangement of the design. However, thedivider 550 is fixed in a direction perpendicular to the front rail 580 (ie, parallel to the divider 550 ) and is not movable in that direction except for thegroove 560 of thedivider 550 and the ridge ortongue 584 of the front rail 580 a very small amount of play between them. (The direction perpendicular to the front rail is indicated by arrow "B" in Figure 86H.) This very small amount of play may not be noticed by the user of the system. When thedivider 550 is in contact with thefront rail 580, thegrooves 560 of thedivider 550 engage the ridges ortongues 584 of thefront rail 580, as shown in FIG. 596 in the center) moves only in the lateral direction perpendicular to the front rail 580 (ie, the direction indicated by arrow "A" in FIG. 65). The divider is fixed and immovable along the shelf plane in all directions except the direction parallel to thefront rail 580 under normal operating forces. The dividers cannot twist, tilt, fishtail or otherwise move along the shelf plane in directions other than parallel to thefront rail 580 . However, thedivider 550 can move in a direction away from the plane of the shelf, such as indicated by arrow "C" in Figure 87B. Thedivider 550, with or without product on thedivider floor 554, can slide in the direction previously indicated by arrow "A" in Figure 65 without requiring thedivider 550 to be lifted. In a final step, as shown in Figure 68C, the resilient tongue ortab 564 is manually pulled forward away from thedivider 550. This movement causes theteeth 562 on thefront divider 550 to fit into therecesses 589 in thefront rail 580 . Therecesses 589 in thefront rail 580 are separated byteeth 588 in the front rail. When theteeth 562 of thedivider 550 are in contact with therecesses 589 and theteeth 588 in thefront rail 580, thedivider 550 is engaged and cannot move in the lateral direction under normal force.
在另一例子中，弹性舌部或凸片不包括允许弹性舌部或凸片564保持在向后推动位置的轴式枢转部。而是，弹性舌部或凸片564朝向前导轨580并远离分隔器550偏压，从而当去除将弹性舌部或凸片564手动向后推的力时，舌部或凸片564自动回到其闲置位置，且可接合前导轨580。In another example, the resilient tongue or tab does not include a pivotal pivot that allows the resilient tongue ortab 564 to remain in the pushed rearward position. Rather, the resilient tongue ortab 564 is biased toward thefront rail 580 and away from thedivider 550 so that when the force to manually push the resilient tongue ortab 564 back is removed, the tongue ortab 564 automatically returns Its rest position, and can engage thefront rail 580 .
在一例子中，分隔器550布置为与前导轨580接触。前导轨580的接合构件与分隔器550的接合构件接合，这将分隔器沿垂直于前导轨580(由图86H的箭头“B”所指的方向)的方向固定，并使分隔器550沿垂直于前导轨580的方向不可移动，除非是接合构件之间的不可被用户察觉的非常小量的游隙或空间。分隔器550还沿着货架平面沿除了平行于前导轨580的方向(由图65的箭头“A”所指的方向)的所有其他方向固定。分隔器550可仅沿平行于前导轨580的方向沿着货架平面移动。分隔器550沿着货架平面沿除了平行于前导轨580的方向以外的方向在正常操作力和条件下固定。但是，分隔器可沿离开货架平面的方向移动，诸如由图87B的箭头“C”所指的方向。当分隔器沿垂直于前导轨580的方向“固定”时，这意味着分隔器550在正常操作力和条件下沿垂直于前导轨580的方向不可移动，除非是接合构件之间的不可被用户察觉的非常小量的游隙或空间。垂直于前导轨地方方向在图86H中以箭头“B”表示。分隔器550或前导轨580的第二接合构件处于第一位置，且分隔器侧向地平行于前导轨移动。第二接合构件然后移动到第二位置，这使得分隔器550在正常操作力和条件下沿平行于前导轨580(由图85的箭头“A”所指的方向)侧向方向固定。当分隔器550沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向“固定”时，分隔器550将在正常操作力和条件下不沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向移动。In one example, thedivider 550 is arranged in contact with thefront rail 580 . The engagement members of thefront rail 580 engage the engagement members of thedivider 550, which secures the divider in a direction perpendicular to the front rail 580 (in the direction indicated by arrow "B" in Figure 86H) and causes thedivider 550 to move vertically Not movable in the direction of thefront rail 580 except for a very small amount of play or space between the engaging members that is imperceptible to the user. Thedivider 550 is also secured along the shelf plane in all directions except the direction parallel to the front rail 580 (the direction indicated by arrow "A" in FIG. 65). Thedivider 550 can only move along the shelf plane in a direction parallel to thefront rail 580 . Thedividers 550 are secured along the shelf plane in directions other than parallel to thefront rail 580 under normal operating forces and conditions. However, the divider may move in a direction away from the plane of the shelf, such as the direction indicated by arrow "C" of Figure 87B. When the divider is "fixed" in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580, it means that thedivider 550 is immovable in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580 under normal operating forces and conditions, except between engaging members that cannot be accessed by the user Perceived very small amount of play or space. The direction perpendicular to the front rail is indicated by arrow "B" in Figure 86H. The second engagement member of thedivider 550 or thefront rail 580 is in the first position, and the divider moves laterally parallel to the front rail. The second engagement member is then moved to the second position, which secures thedivider 550 in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail 580 (direction indicated by arrow "A" in Figure 85) under normal operating forces and conditions. When thedivider 550 is "fixed" in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580, thedivider 550 will not move in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 under normal operating forces and conditions.
在一例子中，多个分隔器550可作为一组平行于前导轨580移动，同时其他的沿垂直于的方向(由图86H的箭头“B”所指的方向)固定至前导轨580。所述多个分隔器550每个可布置为与前导轨接触580。前导轨580的一个或多个接合构件与所述多个分隔器550每个的接合构件接合，这将所述多个分隔器550的每个沿垂直于前导轨580的方向(由图86H的箭头“B”所指的方向)固定，并使所述多个分隔器550的每个沿垂直于前导轨580的方向不可移动，除非是接合构件之间的不可被用户察觉的非常小量的游隙或空间。前导轨580的一个第二接合构件(或多个第二接合构件)或分隔器550的每个处于第一位置，这允许所述多个分隔器550被侧向地平行于前导轨580移动。所述多个分隔器550可形成被构造用于保持产品的分隔器550之间的排。产品可在所述多个分隔器550的两个之间移动，如图45-47所示。力可沿平行于前导轨580的方向施加到第一分隔器。该力可使第一分隔器沿平行于前导轨580的方向移动，并使分隔器550接触邻近第一分隔器550的产品。(产品在图45-47中示出为罐或盒，且可具有其他形状。)分隔器550然后使产品沿与第一分隔器550相同的方向移动，即，平行于前导轨580。力使产品移动，以与邻近产品的第二分隔器550接触。产品然后使第二分隔器550沿与第一分隔器550和产品相同的方向移动，即，平行于前导轨580。第二分隔器然后使邻近第二分隔器550的第二产品沿平行于前导轨580的方向移动。第二产品可使邻近第二产品的第三分隔器550沿平行于前导轨580的方向移动。以该方式，一系列分隔器550和产品全可利用平行于前部580的方向作用在分隔器550或产品仅一个上的一个力沿平行于前导轨580的方向移动。当前导轨580上的一个或多个第二接合构件或所述多个分隔器550的一个移动到第二位置，这使得分隔器550在正常操作条件和力下沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向固定，分隔器550不能沿平行于前导轨580的方向移动，且分隔器550没有使其他分隔器550或产品沿平行于前导轨580的方向移动。In one example, a plurality ofdividers 550 can be moved as a set parallel to thefront rail 580, while others are fixed to thefront rail 580 in a direction perpendicular to (the direction indicated by arrow "B" in Figure 86H). The plurality ofdividers 550 may each be arranged incontact 580 with the front rail. One or more engagement members of thefront rail 580 engage the engagement members of each of the plurality ofdividers 550, which aligns each of the plurality ofdividers 550 in a direction perpendicular to the front rail 580 (represented by FIG. 86H . direction indicated by arrow "B") and make each of the plurality ofdividers 550 immovable in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580, except for a very small amount between the engaging members that is imperceptible to the user clearance or space. A second engagement member (or second engagement members) of thefront rail 580 or each of thedividers 550 is in the first position, which allows the plurality ofdividers 550 to be moved laterally parallel to thefront rail 580 . The plurality ofdividers 550 may form a row betweendividers 550 configured to hold product. Product can move between two of the plurality ofdividers 550, as shown in Figures 45-47. A force may be applied to the first divider in a direction parallel to thefront rail 580 . This force can move the first divider in a direction parallel to thefront rail 580 and cause thedivider 550 to contact the product adjacent to thefirst divider 550 . (The product is shown in FIGS. 45-47 as a can or box, and may have other shapes.) Thedivider 550 then moves the product in the same direction as thefirst divider 550, ie, parallel to thefront rail 580. The force moves the product into contact with thesecond divider 550 adjacent to the product. The product then moves thesecond divider 550 in the same direction as thefirst divider 550 and the product, ie, parallel to thefront rail 580 . The second divider then moves the second product adjacent to thesecond divider 550 in a direction parallel to thefront rail 580 . The second product may move thethird divider 550 adjacent to the second product in a direction parallel to thefront rail 580 . In this way, a series ofdividers 550 and products can all be moved in a direction parallel to thefront rail 580 with a force acting on thedivider 550 or only one of the products in a direction parallel to thefront 580 . One or more of the second engagement members on thefront rail 580 or one of the plurality ofdividers 550 is moved to the second position, which causes thedivider 550 to move in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 under normal operating conditions and forces The orientation is fixed, thedivider 550 cannot move in a direction parallel to thefront rail 580 , and thedivider 550 does not moveother dividers 550 or products in a direction parallel to thefront rail 580 .
在一例子中，当第二接合构件移动到第二位置时，第二接合构件抑制分隔器550沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向的移动。在等于或小于预限定大小的力时，第二接合构件防止分隔器550沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向移动。当高于预限定大小的力沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向被施加到分隔器550时，分隔器550可沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向移动。In one example, the second engagement member inhibits movement of thedivider 550 in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 when the second engagement member is moved to the second position. The second engagement member prevents thedivider 550 from moving in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 at a force equal to or less than a predefined magnitude. When a force higher than a predetermined magnitude is applied to thedivider 550 in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 , thedivider 550 can move in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 .
在图66所示的实施例中，分隔器底板554的厚度变化。分隔器底板554的前部部分，那个部分靠近前导轨的平面表面582，的厚度小于分隔器底板554的进一步向后的后部部分，那个部分不靠近前导轨的平面表面582，的厚度。如图67所示，分隔器底板554A的所述部分比分隔器底板554B的所述部分薄。在一例子中，分隔器底板554的靠近前导轨580的平面表面582的前部部分的厚度比分隔器底板554的不靠近前导轨的平面表面582的后部部分的厚度小至少25％。In the embodiment shown in Figure 66, the thickness of thedivider bottom plate 554 varies. The front portion of thedivider floor 554, that portion proximate theplanar surface 582 of the front rail, has a thickness that is less than the thickness of the further rearward portion of thedivider floor 554, that portion is not proximate theplanar surface 582 of the front rail. As shown in Figure 67, the portion of thedivider base plate 554A is thinner than the portion of the divider base plate 554B. In one example, the thickness of the front portion of thedivider floor 554 proximate theplanar surface 582 of thefront rail 580 is at least 25% less than the thickness of the rear portion of thedivider floor 554 not proximate theplanar surface 582 of the front rail.
如图69A和69B所示的实施例包括用于前导轨580的导轨安装夹持件590。如图69B所示，前导轨580包括孔592。在零售环境下，该孔592可协调为布置在货架596上的孔595上方，如图70所示。导轨安装夹持件590可以是弯曲的。导轨安装夹持件590还在导轨安装夹持件590的一个端部处容纳窄部分594。在零售环境下，导轨安装夹持件590可插入到前导轨580中的孔592的较宽的圆形部分中，并插入到货架596上的孔595中，如图71所示。导轨安装夹持件590然后可侧向地移位到前导轨580中的孔592内的较窄部分。通过使导轨安装夹持件590移位，导轨安装夹持件590的较宽的圆形部分将接合前导轨中的孔592的较窄部分，并将锁定在位。导轨安装夹持件590由此将前导轨580保持在位，并防止前导轨580沿侧向方向移动。如果已知在运到商店货架之前已经具有孔，导轨安装夹持件590可在运送之前插入和锁定到前导轨580中。在运送之前插入导轨安装夹持件590可在商店环境下增加售卖系统安装容易度。The embodiment shown in FIGS. 69A and 69B includes arail mounting clip 590 for thefront rail 580 . As shown in FIG. 69B , thefront rail 580 includes a hole 592 . In a retail environment, the apertures 592 may be coordinated to be disposed aboveapertures 595 on theshelf 596, as shown in FIG. 70 . Therail mount clip 590 may be curved. Therail mount clip 590 also receives anarrow portion 594 at one end of therail mount clip 590 . In a retail environment, the rail mount clips 590 can be inserted into the wider circular portion of the holes 592 in thefront rail 580 and into theholes 595 in theshelf 596, as shown in FIG. 71 . Therail mounting clip 590 is then laterally displaceable into a narrower portion within the hole 592 in thefront rail 580 . By displacing therail mounting clip 590, the wider circular portion of therail mounting clip 590 will engage the narrower portion of the hole 592 in the front rail and will lock in place. Therail mounting clips 590 thus hold thefront rail 580 in place and prevent thefront rail 580 from moving in the lateral direction. Rail mount clips 590 can be inserted and locked intofront rails 580 prior to shipping if it is known to have holes prior to shipping to store shelves. Inserting the rail mount clips 590 prior to shipping may increase the ease of installation of the vending system in a store environment.
在至少一个实施例中，分隔器壁552的高度可大于挡板556的高度，如图72和73所示。图74还显示了保持在挡板556内的卷绕弹簧534的端部557。弹簧534的端部557与弹簧本体534的其余部分呈大约90度角弯曲。端部557布置在保持在挡板556内的切槽558内。In at least one embodiment, the height of thedivider wall 552 can be greater than the height of thebaffle 556, as shown in FIGS. 72 and 73 . FIG. 74 also shows theend 557 of thewrap spring 534 retained within thebaffle 556 . Theend 557 of thespring 534 is bent at an angle of approximately 90 degrees with the remainder of thespring body 534 .End 557 is disposed within acutout 558 retained withinbaffle 556 .
在一实施例中，分隔器550包含齿600，如图72和73所示。这些齿可模制为与分隔器550一体。如在其他实施例中一样，齿600没有保持在弹性凸片或舌部。齿600彼此间隔开。多个齿600在分隔器550的前部部分底部处和挡板556前方布置在分隔器550上。In one embodiment,divider 550 includesteeth 600 as shown in FIGS. 72 and 73 . These teeth may be molded integrally with thedivider 550 . As in the other embodiments, theteeth 600 are not retained on resilient tabs or tongues. Theteeth 600 are spaced apart from each other. A plurality ofteeth 600 are arranged on thedivider 550 at the bottom of the front portion of thedivider 550 and in front of thebaffle 556 .
如图75所示，前导轨610可包括多个齿612。前导轨610中的齿612可设计为可松脱地接合分隔器550的齿600，通过使用前导轨610中的凸轮棒622以及凸轮作用，如图76所示。前导轨610还包括大体平坦或为平面的平面表面614以及大体垂直于平面表面614的舌部或脊616，如图75所示。前导轨610还包括凸轮棒杆618，其使凸轮棒622在前导轨610内移动，如图76A和76B所示。在图76A中，凸轮棒杆618处于第一位置，其中，前导轨610的齿612远离分隔器被带入到前导轨610内。在图76B，凸轮棒杆618处于第二位置，其中，前导轨610的齿612朝向分隔器550延伸。As shown in FIG. 75 , thefront rail 610 may include a plurality ofteeth 612 . Theteeth 612 in thefront rail 610 can be designed to releasably engage theteeth 600 of thedivider 550 by using the cam bars 622 in thefront rail 610 and cam action, as shown in FIG. 76 . Thefront rail 610 also includes a generally flat or planarplanar surface 614 and a tongue orridge 616 generally perpendicular to theplanar surface 614, as shown in FIG. 75 . Thefront rail 610 also includes acam bar lever 618 that moves thecam bar 622 within thefront rail 610, as shown in Figures 76A and 76B. In Figure 76A, thecam bar lever 618 is in a first position, wherein theteeth 612 of thefront rail 610 are brought into thefront rail 610 away from the divider. In FIG. 76B , thecam bar lever 618 is in the second position with theteeth 612 of thefront rail 610 extending toward thedivider 550 .
图77示出一实施例的多个方面的分解视图。前导轨610示出为包括挤出壳体620、凸轮棒622和齿棒624。齿棒624包含多个齿612。挤出壳体620包括凸轮区域626，其设计为容纳凸轮棒622和齿棒624。凸轮棒622位于靠近挤出壳体620的前导轨610的基部。凸轮棒624与凸轮棒杆618接触。凸轮棒杆618可操作为将凸轮棒622沿侧向方向前后移动。凸轮棒622还包括细长凸轮容纳部628。凸轮容纳部628是对角的，凸轮容纳部628的前端部更靠近前导轨610的前端部，容纳部628的后端部从前导轨610的前端部进一步向后。Figure 77 shows an exploded view of aspects of an embodiment.Front rail 610 is shown to includeextruded housing 620 ,cam bar 622 andtooth bar 624 . Thetoothed bar 624 includes a plurality ofteeth 612 .Extrusion housing 620 includescam region 626 designed to accommodatecam bar 622 andtooth bar 624 . Thecam bar 622 is located near the base of thefront rail 610 of theextrusion housing 620 .Cam bar 624 is in contact withcam bar rod 618 . Thecam bar lever 618 is operable to move thecam bar 622 back and forth in a lateral direction. Thecam bar 622 also includes anelongated cam receiver 628 . The camaccommodating portion 628 is diagonal, the front end portion of thecam accommodating portion 628 is closer to the front end portion of thefront rail 610 , and the rear end portion of thecam accommodating portion 628 is further rearward from the front end portion of thefront rail 610 .
齿棒624可包括凸轮柱630。齿棒凸轮柱630在前导轨610的操作期间布置在凸轮棒容纳部628内。当凸轮棒622和凸轮棒容纳部628侧向地移动时，齿棒凸轮柱630沿与凸轮棒622的运动垂直的方向移动。随着凸轮棒622在凸轮区域626内侧向地前后移动，齿棒凸轮柱630朝向前导轨610的前部(和远离分隔器的齿600)和远离前导轨610的前部(和朝向分隔器的齿600)移动。随着齿棒凸轮柱630移动，齿棒624也移动。由此，当凸轮棒杆618从第一位置向第二位置移动，其沿前导轨610的内侧使凸轮棒622侧向地移动。凸轮棒622的该侧向移动导致齿棒624和其上的齿612沿与凸轮棒622的方向垂直的方向移动；即，齿棒624沿朝向或远离前导轨610的前部和朝向或远离分隔器550上的齿600的方向移动。图78示出图77所示的实施例的多个方面的分解后视图。Therack bar 624 may include acam post 630 . The rackbar cam post 630 is disposed within thecam bar receptacle 628 during operation of thefront rail 610 . As thecam bar 622 and thecam bar receiver 628 move laterally, the rackbar cam post 630 moves in a direction perpendicular to the movement of thecam bar 622 . As thecam bar 622 moves back and forth laterally within thecam area 626, the toothedbar cam post 630 faces the front of the front rail 610 (and away from theteeth 600 of the divider) and away from the front of the front rail 610 (and towards the divider Teeth 600) move. As therack cam post 630 moves, therack 624 also moves. Thus, as thecam bar lever 618 moves from the first position to the second position, it moves thecam bar 622 laterally along the inside of thefront rail 610 . This lateral movement of thecam bar 622 causes therack bar 624 and theteeth 612 thereon to move in a direction perpendicular to the direction of thecam bar 622; move in the direction of theteeth 600 on theactuator 550 . FIG. 78 shows an exploded rear view of aspects of the embodiment shown in FIG. 77 .
图79A-C示出一步接一步地将分隔器550布置到前导轨610中的指引的例子。分隔器550(在分隔器上包括齿600)下降到前导轨610的通道640中，如图79A所示。齿棒624一开始处于较靠近前导轨610前部的位置，齿棒624的齿612没有与分隔器550的齿600接合。凸轮棒杆618处于第一位置，其保持齿棒624的齿612没有与分隔器齿600接合，如图79B所示。在该位置中，分隔器550可沿前导轨610的脊或舌部616侧向地移动。分隔器550可使产品安放在分隔器底板554上，随着分隔器550沿着前导轨沿图77中通过“A”所示的方向侧向地移动。前导轨580中的脊584或其他突出部可接合分隔器550中的沟槽560或其他凹部，以固定分隔器550，并防止在正常操作条件和力下，分隔器沿垂直于前导轨580的方向移动，除非是在脊584和沟槽560之间有非常小量的游隙(例如，小于3mm)。凸轮棒杆618然后从第一位置移动到第二位置。凸轮棒杆618的运动导致凸轮棒622沿侧向方向在挤出壳体620内移动。凸轮棒622的移动包括对角的凸轮棒容纳部628沿侧向方向的移动。凸轮棒容纳部628的移动则导致齿棒凸轮柱630沿垂直于凸轮棒622的方向的方向以及沿朝向分隔器550的齿600的方向移动，如图79C所示。齿棒凸轮柱630联接至齿棒624并可与之一体。相应地，齿棒凸轮柱630移动导致齿棒624和容纳在其中的齿612朝向分隔器的齿600移动。该移动导致齿棒624的齿612与分隔器的齿600接合。当齿棒的齿612与分隔器的齿600接合时，分隔器550可松脱地接合，并在正常操作力和条件下，没有沿图77中的箭头“A”所示的侧向方向移动。79A-C show an example of a guide for arranging thedividers 550 into thefront rail 610 step by step. The divider 550 (including theteeth 600 on the divider) is lowered into thechannel 640 of thefront rail 610, as shown in Figure 79A. Therack bar 624 is initially positioned closer to the front of thefront rail 610 and theteeth 612 of therack bar 624 are not engaged with theteeth 600 of thedivider 550 . Thecam bar lever 618 is in the first position, which keeps theteeth 612 of therack bar 624 out of engagement with thespacer teeth 600, as shown in Figure 79B. In this position, thedivider 550 can move laterally along the ridge ortongue 616 of thefront rail 610 . Thedivider 550 allows the product to be placed on thedivider floor 554 as thedivider 550 moves laterally along the front rail in the direction shown by "A" in FIG. 77 .Ridges 584 or other protrusions in thefront rail 580 may engagegrooves 560 or other recesses in thedivider 550 to secure thedivider 550 and prevent the divider from moving along a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580 under normal operating conditions and forces. directional movement unless there is a very small amount of play (eg, less than 3 mm) between theridge 584 and thegroove 560. Thecam bar 618 is then moved from the first position to the second position. Movement of thecam bar lever 618 causes thecam bar 622 to move within theextrusion housing 620 in a lateral direction. Movement of thecam bar 622 includes movement of the diagonalcam bar receiver 628 in the lateral direction. Movement of thecam bar receptacle 628 then causes the rackbar cam post 630 to move in a direction perpendicular to the direction of thecam bar 622 and in a direction toward theteeth 600 of thedivider 550, as shown in Figure 79C. Therack cam post 630 is coupled to therack 624 and can be integral therewith. Accordingly, movement of therack cam post 630 causes therack 624 and theteeth 612 housed therein to move toward theteeth 600 of the divider. This movement causes theteeth 612 of therack bar 624 to engage with theteeth 600 of the divider. When theteeth 612 of the rack are engaged with theteeth 600 of the divider, thedivider 550 is releasably engaged and does not move in the lateral direction indicated by arrow "A" in FIG. 77 under normal operating forces and conditions .
齿棒624在其端部处固定，从而齿棒624可仅沿朝向或背离分隔器的齿600的方向移动。齿棒624不能沿图77通过箭头“A”所示的侧向方向移动。凸轮棒622以相对的方式操作。凸轮棒622固定为使得，凸轮棒622可仅沿图77通过箭头“A”所示的侧向方向移动。凸轮棒不能朝向或背离分隔器上的齿600移动。Therack bar 624 is fixed at its ends so that therack bar 624 can only move in the direction towards or away from theteeth 600 of the divider. Therack bar 624 cannot move in the lateral direction indicated by arrow "A" in FIG. 77 .Cam bar 622 operates in an opposite manner. Thecam bar 622 is fixed such that thecam bar 622 can only move in the lateral direction shown by arrow "A" in FIG. 77 . The cam bar cannot move towards or away from theteeth 600 on the divider.
图80提供一实施例的方面的等轴视图。当齿棒624的齿612与分隔器的齿600接合时，整个售卖系统10被锁定。前导轨610和分隔器550彼此可松脱地接合，且将不相对于彼此移动。另外，顶推器520与分隔器550接合。在该位置中，整个售卖系统10可被移动。售卖系统10可根据特定布局设计在远程位置设定，然后被锁定。售卖系统10然后可运送到商店位置。在商店位置，售卖系统10可从运送容器移出，并布置在货架上，类似于垫子。分隔器550的布局设计将在售卖系统10被锁定时保持完好。80 provides an isometric view of aspects of an embodiment. When theteeth 612 of therack bar 624 are engaged with theteeth 600 of the divider, theentire vending system 10 is locked.Front rail 610 anddivider 550 are releasably engaged with each other and will not move relative to each other. Additionally, theejector 520 is engaged with thedivider 550 . In this position, theentire vending system 10 can be moved. Thevending system 10 can be set up at a remote location according to a specific layout design and then locked. Thevending system 10 may then be shipped to the store location. At the store location, thevending system 10 can be removed from the shipping container and placed on a shelf, similar to a mat. The layout of thedivider 550 is designed to remain intact when thevending system 10 is locked.
在一例子中，展示系统在远离货架的远程位置组装，然后作为单元移动到货架并固定至货架。多个分隔器550以一方式与前导轨580接合，在该方式中，它们被固定且将不沿垂直于前导轨580的方向明显移动。根据预先计划的布局设计或其他设置，所述多个分隔器550平行于前导轨580侧向地调整。所述多个分隔器550包括接合构件和前导轨580包括接合构件。所述多个分隔器550上的接合构件和/或前导轨580上的接合构件从第一位置调整到第二位置，以将所述多个分隔器550固定至前导轨580，从而所述多个分隔器不能相对于前导轨580沿任何方向移动。前导轨580和所述多个分隔器550然后作为单元移动到货架。前导轨580然后固定至货架。In one example, the display system is assembled at a remote location away from the rack, then moved to and secured to the rack as a unit. The plurality ofdividers 550 engage thefront rail 580 in a manner in which they are fixed and will not move significantly in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580 . The plurality ofdividers 550 are laterally adjusted parallel to thefront rail 580 according to a pre-planned layout design or other arrangement. The plurality ofdividers 550 include engagement members and thefront rail 580 includes engagement members. The engaging members on the plurality ofdividers 550 and/or the engaging members on thefront rail 580 are adjusted from the first position to the second position to secure the plurality ofdividers 550 to thefront rail 580 so that the plurality of The dividers cannot move relative to thefront rail 580 in any direction. Thefront rail 580 and the plurality ofdividers 550 are then moved to the shelf as a unit. Thefront rail 580 is then secured to the shelf.
为了改变售卖系统在商店位置处的布局设计，分隔器550和产品不需要从货架移除。用于每个分隔器550的凸轮棒杆618或其他接合构件可移动其初始位置。通过将凸轮棒杆618或其他接合构件移动到其初始位置，齿棒624的齿612从分隔器的齿600释放(或一个接合构件从另一个接合构件脱开)。在该位置中，分隔器550可沿图80中“A”箭头指示的方向侧向地移动。当分隔器550正被移动时，产品可在分隔器底板554和顶推器底板524上保持在位。一旦分隔器550已经移动到新的布局设计位置，用于每个分隔器550的凸轮棒杆618或其他接合构件可移动到其第二位置。齿棒622的齿612然后将结合分隔器550的齿600(或一个接合构件将与另一个接合构件接合)，并再次导致售卖系统10被锁定。In order to change the layout design of the vending system at the store location, thedividers 550 and products do not need to be removed from the shelves. Thecam bar lever 618 or other engagement member for eachdivider 550 can move from its original position. By moving thecam bar lever 618 or other engagement member to its original position, theteeth 612 of therack bar 624 are released from the separator teeth 600 (or one engagement member is disengaged from the other). In this position, thedivider 550 can be moved laterally in the direction indicated by the "A" arrow in FIG. 80 . While thedivider 550 is being moved, the product may be held in place on thedivider floor 554 and theejector floor 524 . Once thedividers 550 have been moved to the new layout design position, thecam bar 618 or other engagement member for eachdivider 550 can be moved to its second position. Theteeth 612 of thetoothed bar 622 will then engage theteeth 600 of the divider 550 (or one engagement member will engage another engagement member) and again cause thevending system 10 to be locked.
在一例子中，凸轮作用的操作将进一步在图81A和81B中示出。图81A示出分隔器的齿600没有与齿棒624的齿612接合。凸轮棒622邻近前导轨610的前壁。在图81B中，凸轮棒杆618已经移动到第二位置，凸轮棒622已经侧向地移动，且齿棒凸轮柱630已经朝向分隔器550移动。齿棒624的齿612也已经朝向分隔器550移动，并已经接合分隔器齿600。In one example, the operation of the cam action will be further illustrated in Figures 81A and 81B. FIG. 81A shows that theteeth 600 of the divider are not engaged with theteeth 612 of therack bar 624 .Cam bar 622 is adjacent to the front wall offront rail 610 . In FIG. 81B , thecam bar lever 618 has moved to the second position, thecam bar 622 has moved laterally, and the rackbar cam post 630 has moved toward thedivider 550 .Teeth 612 ofrack bar 624 have also moved towarddivider 550 and have engageddivider teeth 600 .
在一实施例中，可替代齿棒624上的齿612使用软橡胶垫，且其可用作接合构件。在该实施例中，当齿棒624邻近前导轨610的前部部分时，软橡胶垫和分隔器齿600没有彼此接触。当凸轮棒杆618移动到其第二位置且凸轮棒622沿分隔器齿600的方向移动齿棒624时，分隔器齿600接触并由此接合软橡胶垫。该接触提供了抵抗干涉，并将分隔器齿600保持在位，且防止分隔器550沿图77中通过箭头“A”所示的方向的侧向移动。In one embodiment, a soft rubber pad may be used in place of theteeth 612 on thetooth bar 624 and may be used as the engagement member. In this embodiment, the soft rubber pads and thedivider teeth 600 are not in contact with each other when therack bar 624 is adjacent the front portion of thefront rail 610 . When thecam bar lever 618 is moved to its second position and thecam bar 622 moves thetooth bar 624 in the direction of thedivider teeth 600, thedivider teeth 600 contact and thereby engage the soft rubber pad. This contact provides resistance to interference and holds thedivider teeth 600 in place and prevents lateral movement of thedivider 550 in the direction indicated by arrow "A" in FIG. 77 .
在另一实施例中，如图82A-C所示，分隔器550布置在位为与前导轨580通过使用卡持件接触。图82A-C示出一步接一步地将分隔器550插入到前导轨580中的过程。一开始，如图82A所示，分隔器550下降到形成在前导轨580(或610)中的通道640中。另外，前导轨580中的脊或舌部644接触分隔器550中的通道645。分隔器550在分隔器550的前部部分处包括隆起或向外延伸的脊650。前导轨580上的卡持件652旋转以接合分隔器550的隆起650。卡持件652在隆起650上卡固，并将隆起650和分隔器550锁定在位。齿棒550不能沿图80通过箭头“A”所示的侧向方向移动。为了移动分隔器550，卡持件652必须被拉动以将卡持件652从分隔器隆起650解除卡固。In another embodiment, as shown in Figures 82A-C, thedivider 550 is positioned in contact with thefront rail 580 through the use of a catch. 82A-C show the process of inserting thedivider 550 into thefront rail 580 step by step. Initially, as shown in Figure 82A,divider 550 is lowered intochannel 640 formed in front rail 580 (or 610). Additionally, the ridges ortongues 644 in thefront rail 580 contact thechannels 645 in thedivider 550 . Thedivider 550 includes a raised or outwardly extendingridge 650 at the front portion of thedivider 550 . Thecatch 652 on thefront rail 580 rotates to engage theridge 650 of thedivider 550 . Thecatch 652 snaps over thebump 650 and locks thebump 650 anddivider 550 in place. Therack bar 550 cannot move in the lateral direction indicated by arrow "A" in FIG. 80 . In order to move thedivider 550 , thecatch 652 must be pulled to disengage thecatch 652 from thedivider bump 650 .
在另一实施例中，如图83A-C所示，分隔器550布置在位为与前导轨580通过使用包括齿的旋转杆660接触。图83A-C示出一步接一步地将分隔器550插入到前导轨580中的过程。一开始，如图83A所示，分隔器550下降到形成在前导轨580中的通道640中。前导轨580包括旋转杆660，其本身包括齿。当分隔器550一开始下降到通道中，如图83B所示，旋转杆660的齿处于第一位置，其中它们没有与分隔器550的齿600接合。把手662联接至旋转杆660。当把手处于第一位置664时，旋转杆660的齿处于第一位置，其中，它们没有与分隔器500的齿600接合。当把手662移动到第二位置668，如图83C所示，把手662旋转旋转杆660，并将旋转杆662上的齿移动到与分隔器550上的齿接合的位置。在该位置中，棒齿处于与分隔器齿600干涉的条件。当棒齿和分隔器齿600彼此接合，分隔器550不能沿图80中通过箭头“A”所示的侧向方向移动。为了移动分隔器550，棒660必须回到其第一位置664，且棒660的齿不与分隔器550上的齿600接合。In another embodiment, as shown in Figures 83A-C, thedivider 550 is positioned in contact with thefront rail 580 through the use of a rotating rod 660 that includes teeth. 83A-C show the process of inserting thedivider 550 into thefront rail 580 step by step. Initially, thedivider 550 is lowered into thechannel 640 formed in thefront rail 580 as shown in FIG. 83A.Front rail 580 includes rotating rod 660, which itself includes teeth. When thedivider 550 is initially lowered into the channel, as shown in FIG. 83B, the teeth of the rotating rod 660 are in a first position in which they are not engaged with theteeth 600 of thedivider 550. The handle 662 is coupled to the rotating rod 660 . When the handle is in the first position 664 , the teeth of the rotating lever 660 are in a first position in which they are not engaged with theteeth 600 of thedivider 500 . When the handle 662 is moved to thesecond position 668 , as shown in FIG. 83C , the handle 662 rotates the rotating rod 660 and moves the teeth on the rotating rod 662 into a position that engages the teeth on thedivider 550 . In this position, the rod teeth are in a condition to interfere with thespacer teeth 600 . When the rod andspacer teeth 600 are engaged with each other, thespacer 550 cannot move in the lateral direction indicated by arrow "A" in FIG. 80 . In order to move thedivider 550, the rod 660 must return to its first position 664 with the teeth of the rod 660 not engaged with theteeth 600 on thedivider 550.
在一实施例中，多个顶推器520和分隔器550可与单个前导轨580使用。图84A-E示出使用两个顶推器520和两个分隔器550，以将产品朝向货架前部推动。使用多个顶推器520可允许推动宽的产品，示意地如图所示。另外，将顶推器延伸件528布置在其向上延伸位置可允许顶推器520推动更高的产品或更多的产品，如图84D和84E所示。分隔器550可联接至两个顶推器520。在分隔器壁552的每侧，一个顶推器520可接合到挡板556的一部分，如图84F所示。在其他例子中，分隔器可联接到一个顶推器或分隔器可不联接至顶推器。In one embodiment,multiple ejectors 520 anddividers 550 may be used with asingle front rail 580 . 84A-E illustrate the use of twopushers 520 and twodividers 550 to push products toward the front of the shelf. The use ofmultiple ejectors 520 may allow wide products to be pushed, as shown schematically. Additionally, disposing theejector extension 528 in its upwardly extended position may allow theejector 520 to push taller products or more products, as shown in Figures 84D and 84E. Thedivider 550 may be coupled to the twoejectors 520 . On each side of thedivider wall 552, oneejector 520 may be engaged to a portion of thebaffle 556, as shown in Figure 84F. In other examples, the divider may be coupled to one ejector or the divider may not be coupled to the ejector.
分隔器550部分地通过凸轮720的操作固定至前导轨580，如图85所示。图85在透视侧视图中示出凸轮720联接到挡板556。凸轮720包括圆形部分722，其构造为在挡板556中的腔室740内旋转(见图86G)。凸轮720还包括舌部724，其包括第一凸轮壁726、第二凸轮壁728，和第三凸轮壁730。在图85中，凸轮在没有与前导轨接合的位置。在该位置中，第一凸轮壁726可以大体垂直地布置。在该位置中，第二凸轮壁728和第三凸轮壁730可也是大体水平地布置。第一凸轮壁726与第二凸轮壁728联接。第二凸轮壁728与第三凸轮壁730联接。凸轮还包括把手732。Thedivider 550 is secured to thefront rail 580 in part by the operation of thecam 720 as shown in FIG. 85 . FIG. 85 shows thecam 720 coupled to theflapper 556 in a perspective side view.Cam 720 includes acircular portion 722 that is configured to rotate withincavity 740 in baffle 556 (see Figure 86G). Thecam 720 also includes atongue 724 that includes afirst cam wall 726 , asecond cam wall 728 , and athird cam wall 730 . In Figure 85, the cam is in a position not engaged with the front rail. In this position, thefirst cam wall 726 may be arranged generally vertically. In this position, thesecond cam wall 728 and thethird cam wall 730 may also be arranged generally horizontally. Thefirst cam wall 726 is coupled with thesecond cam wall 728 . Thesecond cam wall 728 is coupled with thethird cam wall 730 . The cam also includes ahandle 732 .
在另一实施例中，舌部724仅具有两个凸轮壁。第一凸轮壁，诸如第一凸轮壁726，和第二凸轮壁。第二凸轮壁是直的，且跨由凸轮壁728和730显示的长度。在该实施例中，第二凸轮壁没有弯曲。凸轮壁可延伸分隔器550的宽度的一个或多个部分或可延伸分隔器550的整个长度。In another embodiment, thetongue 724 has only two cam walls. A first cam wall, such asfirst cam wall 726, and a second cam wall. The second cam wall is straight and spans the length shown bycam walls 728 and 730 . In this embodiment, the second cam wall is not curved. The cam walls may extend one or more portions of the width of thedivider 550 or may extend the entire length of thedivider 550 .
在图92-94所示的另一实施例中，凸轮720可限定凸轮滑动部表面733(在此之后称为凸轮滑动部)，其定位在凸轮底部侧，与把手732相对。凸轮滑动部733用作低摩擦滑动部隆起，以改善分隔器相对于导轨的稳定性。在操作中，凸轮滑动部733将分隔器从导轨举起，以减小分隔器和导轨之间的摩擦，由此改善分隔器相对于导轨的稳定性。如图可见，凸轮720的凸轮滑动部733在分隔器的底部表面下侧或下方延伸，且是分隔器和导轨之间的接触点。在该构造中，当分隔器相对于导轨侧向地移动时，分隔器和导轨之间的主要接触仅是凸轮滑动部，且明显没有分隔器和导轨的其他部分彼此接触。该单接触点因此减小分隔器和导轨之间的摩擦。In another embodiment shown in FIGS. 92-94 , thecam 720 may define a cam slide surface 733 (hereafter referred to as the cam slide) that is positioned on the bottom side of the cam opposite thehandle 732 . The cam slides 733 act as low friction slide bumps to improve the stability of the divider relative to the rails. In operation, thecam slide 733 lifts the divider from the rail to reduce friction between the divider and the rail, thereby improving the stability of the divider relative to the rail. As can be seen, thecam slide 733 of thecam 720 extends under or below the bottom surface of the divider and is the point of contact between the divider and the rail. In this configuration, when the divider is moved laterally relative to the rail, the primary contact between the divider and the rail is only the cam slide, and apparently no other parts of the divider and rail are in contact with each other. This single point of contact thus reduces friction between the divider and the rail.
凸轮滑动部可还限定平面表面，其从凸轮720的圆形部分722向外延伸。凸轮滑动部733可居中地定位在凸轮的圆形部分722上，以提供分隔器相对于导轨的稳定性和平衡。但是，应理解，凸轮滑动部可定位在凸轮上的任何其他适当位置。凸轮滑动部的平面表面可在细长边缘处终结，该细长边缘的尺寸和形状设置为在导轨580的通道586中自由地滑动，以由此允许分隔器相对于导轨容易地侧向移动。平面表面的细长边缘可限定圆形或带轮廓边缘表面，以进一步辅助凸轮滑动部相对于导轨的自由移动。应理解，凸轮滑动部可限定允许凸轮滑动部适配在导轨内或沿其适配且还允许分隔器相对于导轨的可滑动移动的其他构造。例如，凸轮滑动部可限定隆起或圆形凸伸部或一系列隆起或圆形凸伸部，其将实现与限定细长边缘的平面表面相同的目的。虽然限定凸轮滑动部733的凸轮720示出为与分隔器一起使用，凸轮和凸轮滑动部可与顶推器或顶推器组件或安装到导轨的其他部件一起使用。The cam slide may also define a planar surface that extends outwardly from thecircular portion 722 of thecam 720 . Thecam slide 733 may be centrally positioned on thecircular portion 722 of the cam to provide stability and balance of the divider relative to the rail. However, it should be understood that the cam slide may be positioned at any other suitable location on the cam. The planar surface of the cam slide may terminate at an elongated edge sized and shaped to slide freely in thechannel 586 of therail 580 to thereby permit easy lateral movement of the divider relative to the rail. The elongated edge of the planar surface may define a rounded or contoured edge surface to further assist free movement of the cam slide relative to the rail. It will be appreciated that the cam slide may define other configurations that allow the cam slide to fit within or along the rail and also allow for slidable movement of the divider relative to the rail. For example, the cam slide may define a ridge or circular projection or a series of ridges or circular projections that will serve the same purpose as the planar surface defining the elongated edge. Although thecam 720 defining thecam slide 733 is shown for use with the divider, the cam and cam slide may be used with a pusher or pusher assembly or other component mounted to the rail.
在另一实施例中，限定凸轮滑动部733的凸轮720可安装到分隔器或顶推器的后部，且可操作地接合后导轨，其安装在货架后部。在该实施例中，凸轮720可用于固定和防止分隔器或顶推器相对于后导轨侧向移动，如果用在货架上的话。换句话说，在此所述的凸轮和凸轮滑动部可用于将分隔器或顶推器固定至前导轨或后导轨，或二者，这取决于期望的应用。In another embodiment, thecam 720 defining thecam slide 733 may be mounted to the rear of the divider or ejector and operatively engage the rear rail, which is mounted to the rear of the shelf. In this embodiment,cams 720 may be used to secure and prevent lateral movement of the divider or ejector relative to the rear rail, if used on a shelf. In other words, the cams and cam slides described herein can be used to secure the divider or ejector to the front rail or rear rail, or both, depending on the desired application.
在示例性方面，凸轮720用作锁定件，以将分隔器或顶推器锁定至前导轨或后导轨，或二者。凸轮720当移动到锁定位置时将分隔器或顶推器锁定至导轨，并防止分隔器或顶推器相对于导轨侧向移动。在非锁定位置，凸轮720允许分隔器或顶推器相对于导轨的可滑动运动。在示例性方面，凸轮720在锁定和非锁定位置之间可旋转或枢转。在又一示例性方面，当凸轮处于非锁定位置时，限定凸轮滑动部733的凸轮720用于将分隔器或顶推器锁定至导轨和提高分隔器或顶推器相对于导轨的侧向稳定性这两个功能。In an exemplary aspect, thecam 720 acts as a lock to lock the divider or ejector to the front rail or rear rail, or both.Cam 720 locks the divider or ejector to the rail when moved to the locked position and prevents lateral movement of the divider or ejector relative to the rail. In the unlocked position, thecam 720 allows for slidable movement of the divider or ejector relative to the rail. In an exemplary aspect,cam 720 is rotatable or pivotable between locked and unlocked positions. In yet another exemplary aspect, thecam 720 defining thecam slide 733 is used to lock the divider or ejector to the rail and improve lateral stability of the divider or ejector relative to the rail when the cam is in the unlocked position Sex these two functions.
如图92所示，凸轮720可限定圆形部分722，其构造为在分隔器前方的腔室741内旋转。凸轮720可还限定凸轮表面725和凸轮表面727，其将结合前导轨的沟槽壁754和756，如以下所述。As shown in Figure 92, thecam 720 may define acircular portion 722 that is configured to rotate within thecavity 741 forward of the divider. Thecam 720 may also define acam surface 725 and acam surface 727 that will engage thechannel walls 754 and 756 of the front rail, as described below.
凸轮720适配在挡板556的腔室740内，如图86G所示。在一实施例中，腔室740由侧壁742界定。侧壁742使得腔室740前部比凸轮720宽度略窄。需要一定量的力将凸轮720推过侧壁742并进入腔室740内。在凸轮通过侧壁742之后，其在腔室740中卡固在位。凸轮720可然后在腔室740中旋转，且在正常使用期间没有掉出腔室740或从腔室740脱开。凸轮720可旋转地固定在腔室740内。在一实施例中，腔室740在其前部部分处通过前壁(未示出)界定。Cam 720 fits withincavity 740 ofshutter 556, as shown in Figure 86G. In one embodiment,chamber 740 is defined bysidewall 742 . Theside walls 742 make the front of thechamber 740 slightly narrower than thecam 720 width. A certain amount of force is required to push thecam 720 through theside wall 742 and into thecavity 740 . After the cam has passed theside wall 742 , it snaps into place in thecavity 740 . Thecam 720 may then rotate in thechamber 740 without falling out or disengaging from thechamber 740 during normal use.Cam 720 is rotatably secured withinchamber 740 . In one embodiment, thechamber 740 is defined at its front portion by a front wall (not shown).
在另一实施例中，侧壁742不使得腔室740前部比凸轮720宽度窄。在该实施例中，凸轮720可布置到腔室740中，且从腔室740移除，而不需要克服侧壁742导致的抵抗力。In another embodiment, theside walls 742 do not make the front of thechamber 740 narrower than thecam 720 width. In this embodiment, thecam 720 can be placed into thechamber 740 and removed from thechamber 740 without overcoming the resistance force caused by theside wall 742 .
参考图92在另一实施例中，限定凸轮滑动部733的凸轮720可适配在分隔器550的前端部处形成的腔室741内，且可被侧壁743界定。侧壁743使得腔室741前部比凸轮720宽度略窄。需要一定量的力将凸轮720推过侧壁743并进入腔室741内。在凸轮通过侧壁743之后，其在腔室741内卡固在位，并安放在一对腔室表面747上。凸轮720可然后在腔室中旋转，且在正常使用期间没有掉出腔室或从腔室脱开。Referring to FIG. 92 , in another embodiment, thecam 720 defining thecam slide 733 may fit within acavity 741 formed at the front end of thedivider 550 and may be bounded by theside wall 743 . Theside walls 743 make the front of thechamber 741 slightly narrower than thecam 720 width. A certain amount of force is required to pushcam 720 throughside wall 743 and intocavity 741 . After the cam has passed theside wall 743, it snaps into place within thecavity 741 and rests on a pair of cavity surfaces 747. Thecam 720 can then be rotated in the chamber without falling out or disengaging from the chamber during normal use.
如图92-94所示，凸轮720可旋转地固定在腔室741内。在该实施例中，在该实施例中，腔室741还限定开口或切槽745，其尺寸和形状设置为允许凸轮滑动部733在腔室内的可旋转移动。切槽745的尺寸和形状设置为允许凸轮滑动部733的平面表面适配在其中，且由此允许凸轮在腔室741内旋转。开口745还允许凸轮滑动部733延伸超过分隔器的底部表面并进入导轨中。一旦在导轨中，凸轮滑动部将分隔器从导轨提起并与导轨不再接触(如上所述)以允许分隔器相对于导轨的自由稳定性。As shown in FIGS. 92-94 , thecam 720 is rotatably secured within thechamber 741 . In this embodiment, thechamber 741 also defines an opening or slot 745 sized and shaped to allow rotational movement of thecam slide 733 within the chamber. Theslot 745 is sized and shaped to allow the planar surface of thecam slide 733 to fit therein, and thereby allow the cam to rotate within thecavity 741 . Theopening 745 also allows thecam slide 733 to extend beyond the bottom surface of the divider and into the rail. Once in the rail, the cam slide lifts the divider from the rail and out of contact with the rail (as described above) to allow free stability of the divider relative to the rail.
开口745还产生用于凸轮滑动部远离导轨旋转的间隙。当凸轮上的把手732朝向导轨前边缘旋转时，凸轮滑动部因此旋转离开导轨。形成在腔室741内的开口745允许该可旋转运动。Opening 745 also creates clearance for the cam slide to rotate away from the rail. When thehandle 732 on the cam is rotated towards the front edge of the rail, the cam slide is thus rotated away from the rail. Anopening 745 formed in thechamber 741 allows this rotatable movement.
参考图93A和93B，分隔器550示出为下降并布置到导轨580上。更具体地，分隔器550的前部部分下降到通道586中，并且沟槽560布置在脊584上。凸轮滑动部733将接触通道586，并支撑分隔器离开导轨580，如图93B所示。在该实施例中，凸轮滑动部733支撑分隔器，并允许分隔器相对于导轨的自由的可滑动移动。图93B所示，沟槽560和脊584之间以及分隔器的下侧表面和导轨的顶部表面之间存在间隙。Referring to FIGS. 93A and 93B , thedivider 550 is shown lowered and disposed onto therail 580 . More specifically, the front portion of thedivider 550 descends into thechannel 586 and thegroove 560 is arranged on theridge 584 .Cam slide 733 will contactchannel 586 and support the divider away fromrail 580, as shown in Figure 93B. In this embodiment, thecam slide 733 supports the divider and allows free slidable movement of the divider relative to the rail. As shown in Figure 93B, there are gaps between thegrooves 560 and theridges 584 and between the underside surface of the divider and the top surface of the rail.
参考图94A-94C，其示出分隔器、凸轮和导轨的截面视图，凸轮720总是与导轨580接触。如图94A所示，当分隔器550初始地降低到导轨580上时，凸轮滑动部733与导轨580的通道586接触，并将分隔器从导轨提起。如图94A所示，凸轮720限定凸轮表面725、727和729。凸轮还限定凸轮把手732，对着凸轮滑动部733定位。还如图94A所示的是限定导轨通道586的前导轨580，该通道接收分隔器550的一部分且是用于凸轮滑动部733的接触表面。导轨580还限定导轨沟槽750，该沟槽又限定沟槽壁752、754和756，所述沟槽壁如以下所述接触在凸轮操作期间接触凸轮表面。Referring to Figures 94A-94C, which show cross-sectional views of the divider, cam, and rail,cam 720 is always in contact withrail 580. As shown in Figure 94A, when thedivider 550 is initially lowered onto therail 580, thecam slide 733 contacts thechannel 586 of therail 580 and lifts the divider from the rail. As shown in Figure 94A,cam 720 defines cam surfaces 725, 727 and 729. The cam also defines acam handle 732 positioned against thecam slide 733 . Also shown in FIG. 94A is afront rail 580 that defines arail channel 586 that receives a portion of thedivider 550 and is the contact surface for thecam slide 733 .Rail 580 also definesrail groove 750, which in turn definesgroove walls 752, 754, and 756 that contact the cam surface during cam operation as described below.
参考图94B，随着凸轮旋转，通过把手732的操作，凸轮滑动部733保持与通道586接触，且凸轮表面725接触前导轨的沟槽壁或表面756。此时，凸轮720接触在两个点同时接触导轨。Referring to Figure 94B, as the cam rotates, through operation of thehandle 732, thecam slide 733 remains in contact with thechannel 586 and thecam surface 725 contacts the channel wall orsurface 756 of the front rail. At this time, thecam 720 contacts the guide rail at two points at the same time.
参考图94C，随着凸轮甚至进一步通过把手的操作而旋转，凸轮表面725接触沟槽壁或表面754，同时凸轮表面727接触沟槽壁或表面756。并且，凸轮表面729将接触沟槽壁或表面752。沟槽壁752用作止档件，以防止凸轮720的进一步旋转运动。把手732前导轨的前边缘顶部上且甚至随其延伸，或延伸超过前导轨的前边缘。在一例子中，凸轮把手732前部与前导轨的最靠前部分齐平。人类手指间隙存在于把手732和前导轨之间，足以使人类手指(即，拇指或其他手指)够到把手。在此时，凸轮滑动部733已经旋转离开导轨580的通道586，且旋转到开口745中。分隔器现在安放在导轨上并与其直接接触，同时凸轮接合导轨并将分隔器固定至导轨，防止分隔器的侧向运动。在示例性方面，当在图94C所示的位置时，凸轮720卡固到导轨有标准人类听觉可听见的通知，表示凸轮锁定到导轨。Referring to FIG. 94C , as the cam is rotated even further by operation of the handle,cam surface 725 contacts groove wall orsurface 754 while cam surface 727 contacts groove wall orsurface 756 . Also,cam surface 729 will contact groove wall orsurface 752 . Thegroove wall 752 acts as a stop to prevent further rotational movement of thecam 720 . Thehandle 732 extends on top of and even extends with the front edge of the front rail, or extends beyond the front edge of the front rail. In one example, the front of thecam handle 732 is flush with the forward most portion of the front rail. A human finger gap exists between thehandle 732 and the front rail sufficient to allow a human finger (ie, thumb or other fingers) to reach the handle. At this point, thecam slide 733 has rotated out of thechannel 586 of theguide rail 580 and into theopening 745 . The divider is now seated on and in direct contact with the rail, while the cam engages the rail and secures the divider to the rail, preventing lateral movement of the divider. In an exemplary aspect, when in the position shown in FIG. 94C, thecam 720 snaps to the rail with a standard human hearing audible notification that the cam is locked to the rail.
为了将凸轮从卡固位置或锁定位置释放，用户简单地在把手732上提起，以从沟槽壁754和756释放凸轮表面725和727。随着凸轮从沟槽壁释放，凸轮滑动部将旋转回到与导轨通道586的接触，并将分隔器从导轨提起。分隔器然后将经由凸轮滑动部搁置在导轨上，且可随后相对于导轨侧向地移动，上述操作可被重复。如上所述，在将凸轮相对于导轨沟槽锁定和释放期间，凸轮总是与导轨接触，并总是与分隔器接触。To release the cam from the latched or locked position, the user simply lifts onhandle 732 to release cam surfaces 725 and 727 fromchannel walls 754 and 756 . As the cam is released from the channel wall, the cam slide will rotate back into contact with therail channel 586 and lift the divider from the rail. The divider will then rest on the rail via the cam slide and can then be moved laterally relative to the rail, which can be repeated. As mentioned above, during locking and releasing of the cam relative to the rail groove, the cam is always in contact with the rail and always in contact with the divider.
在示例性方面，售卖展示系统可包括前导轨和至少一个分隔器，该分隔器构造为接合前导轨。分隔器可包括挡板、分隔器壁和分隔器底板，该分隔器底板垂直于构造为保持产品的分隔器壁，如在此所述。前锁定件，诸如在此所述的示例性凸轮720，可联接至分隔器。在一方面，前锁定件构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间旋转、枢转或移动。当在第一位置时，前锁定件可允许分隔器相对于前导轨的可滑动移动。在一个实施例中，锁定件可将分隔器从前导轨提起。当在第二位置时，锁定件将分隔器锁定至前导轨，并防止分隔器和前导轨之间的可滑动移动。凸轮在第一位置和第二位置二者中总是与前导轨接触，且总定位在第一位置和第二位置之间。In an exemplary aspect, a vend display system may include a front rail and at least one divider configured to engage the front rail. The divider may include a baffle, a divider wall, and a divider floor perpendicular to the divider wall configured to hold product, as described herein. A front lock, such as theexample cam 720 described herein, may be coupled to the divider. In one aspect, the front lock is configured to rotate, pivot or move between a first position and a second position. When in the first position, the front lock may allow slidable movement of the divider relative to the front rail. In one embodiment, the lock can lift the divider from the front rail. When in the second position, the lock locks the divider to the front rail and prevents slidable movement between the divider and the front rail. The cam is always in contact with the front rail in both the first and second positions, and is always positioned between the first and second positions.
在一例子中，用于分隔器的锁定件，诸如凸轮720或其他锁定件，定位在分隔器的端部处。锁定件可定位在分隔器(即，分隔器的最靠近或与前导轨580接触的端部，其还是最靠近选择产品的消费者的端部)的前端部处。锁定件，诸如凸轮720，可以在分隔器壁552前方。锁定件，诸如凸轮720，可以在挡板556前方。当定位在分隔器的前端部处且在分隔器壁552前方和挡板556前方时，锁定件可被向货架提供维护、重新装货或重新布局设计货架的个人数字地访问，甚至当产品位于分隔器底板554上时和甚至当分隔器底板554装满产品(即，没有额外的产品可装在分隔器底板上)时。当产品在分隔器底板554上时，锁定件(诸如凸轮720)可定位在分隔器上，从而锁定件在产品前方，且当产品在分隔器底板554上时，产品无论其在何位置都不干涉到锁定件的通路。凸轮把手732可与前导轨580的前端部齐平，且可延伸超过前导轨580的前端部。In one example, a lock for the divider, such ascam 720 or other lock, is positioned at the end of the divider. The lock may be positioned at the front end of the divider (ie, the end of the divider closest to or in contact with thefront rail 580, which is also the end closest to the consumer selecting the product). A lock, such ascam 720 , may be forward ofdivider wall 552 . A lock, such ascam 720 , may be in front offlapper 556 . When positioned at the front end of the divider and in front of thedivider wall 552 and in front of thebaffle 556, the lock can be digitally accessed by individuals providing maintenance, restocking, or redesigning the shelf to the shelf, even when products are located in on thedivider floor 554 and even when thedivider floor 554 is full of product (ie, no additional product can be loaded on the divider floor). When the product is on thedivider floor 554 , a lock, such as thecam 720 , can be positioned on the divider so that the lock is in front of the product, and when the product is on thedivider floor 554 , the product is not located wherever it is. interfere with access to the lock. The cam handle 732 can be flush with the front end of thefront rail 580 and can extend beyond the front end of thefront rail 580 .
在一例子中，售卖展示系统可包括前导轨、构造为接合前导轨的至少一个分隔器，且所述至少一个分隔器包括挡板。所述至少一个分隔器可还包括分隔器壁和垂直于分隔器壁的分隔器底板，其中，分隔器底板构造为保持产品。售卖展示系统还包括联接至分隔器的前锁定件。前锁定件在挡板前方和分隔器壁前方。前锁定件构造为当产品在分隔器底板上时可被数字地访问。前锁定件在第一位置和第二位置之间是可移位的。当处于第一位置时，前锁定件将分隔器从前导轨提起，并不再与其接触，且允许分隔器相对于前导轨可滑动移动。当处于第二位置时，前锁定件防止分隔器相对于前导轨可滑动移动。In one example, a vend display system can include a front rail, at least one divider configured to engage the front rail, and the at least one divider includes a baffle. The at least one divider may further include a divider wall and a divider floor perpendicular to the divider wall, wherein the divider floor is configured to hold product. The vend display system also includes a front lock coupled to the divider. The front lock is in front of the bezel and in front of the divider wall. The front lock is configured to be digitally accessible when the product is on the divider floor. The front lock is displaceable between a first position and a second position. When in the first position, the front lock lifts the divider out of contact with the front rail and allows the divider to move slidably relative to the front rail. When in the second position, the front lock prevents slidable movement of the divider relative to the front rail.
在一例子中，图86E和86F示出放大的凸轮720和前导轨580的部分。凸轮720可包括纹路。凸轮720可包括齿或其他接合构件。在一实施例中，第一凸轮壁726通过齿736和738而设置有纹路。齿736可形成下排齿。齿738可形成上排齿。在一实施例中，齿736和齿738是倒圆的。在至少一个实施例中，齿736和齿738形成一垂直排的齿。除去齿上的点可为凸轮齿提供更好的操作和更长的寿命。凸轮720还可以除了齿以外的方式设置纹路，诸如通过粗糙化或其他纹路化。In one example, FIGS. 86E and 86F show an enlarged portion of thecam 720 andfront rail 580 .Cam 720 may include texture.Cam 720 may include teeth or other engagement members. In one embodiment, thefirst cam wall 726 is textured by teeth 736 and 738 . Teeth 736 may form a lower row of teeth. Teeth 738 may form an upper row of teeth. In one embodiment, teeth 736 and 738 are rounded. In at least one embodiment, teeth 736 and 738 form a vertical row of teeth. Removing the points on the teeth provides better operation and longer life for the cam teeth. Thecam 720 may also be textured in ways other than teeth, such as by roughening or other texturing.
在一例子中，前导轨580包括沟槽750，如图86F所示。沟槽750可包括第一沟槽壁752、第二沟槽壁754和第三沟槽壁756。第一沟槽壁752连接至第二沟槽壁754，其则又连接至第三沟槽壁756。在另一实施例中，沟槽750仅具有两个沟槽壁。第一沟槽壁，诸如第一沟槽壁752，和第二沟槽壁754。第二沟槽壁754是直的，且跨通过沟槽壁754和756所示的长度。在该实施例中，第二沟槽壁754没有弯曲。In one example, thefront rail 580 includes agroove 750, as shown in Figure 86F. Thetrench 750 may include afirst trench wall 752 , asecond trench wall 754 and athird trench wall 756 . Thefirst groove wall 752 is connected to thesecond groove wall 754 , which in turn is connected to thethird groove wall 756 . In another embodiment,trench 750 has only two trench walls. First trench walls, such asfirst trench wall 752 , andsecond trench wall 754 .Second trench wall 754 is straight and spans the length shown bytrench walls 754 and 756 . In this embodiment, thesecond trench wall 754 is not curved.
在一实施例中，沟槽750可包括纹路。沟槽750可包括齿。在一实施例中，第一沟槽壁752包括齿766和齿768。齿766可形成下排齿。齿768可形成上排齿。在至少一个实施例中，齿766和齿768形成一垂直排的齿。齿766和齿768是倒圆的。齿766和齿768可沿沟槽750的整个长度布置。另外，齿766和齿768可沿沟槽750的部分设置，沟槽750的其他部分是光滑的且没有齿。沟槽750还可以除了齿以外的方式设置纹路，诸如通过粗糙化或其他纹路化。在一实施例中，第二沟槽壁754是光滑的，第三沟槽壁756是光滑的。在一实施例中，第二凸轮壁728是光滑的，第三凸轮壁730是光滑的。In one embodiment, thegrooves 750 may include textures. Thegrooves 750 may include teeth. In one embodiment, thefirst groove wall 752 includesteeth 766 andteeth 768 .Teeth 766 may form a lower row of teeth.Teeth 768 may form an upper row of teeth. In at least one embodiment,teeth 766 and 768 form a vertical row of teeth.Teeth 766 and 768 are rounded.Teeth 766 and 768 may be arranged along the entire length ofgroove 750 . Additionally,teeth 766 and 768 may be provided along portions ofgroove 750, with other portions ofgroove 750 being smooth and devoid of teeth. Thegrooves 750 may also be textured in ways other than teeth, such as by roughening or other texturing. In one embodiment, thesecond groove wall 754 is smooth and thethird groove wall 756 is smooth. In one embodiment, thesecond cam wall 728 is smooth and thethird cam wall 730 is smooth.
在图87A-C所示的实施例中，售卖展示系统10包括分隔器550和前导轨580。分隔器550包括分隔器壁556、分隔器底板554和挡板554。凸轮720可旋转地联接至挡板556的前部部分。凸轮720包括凸轮舌部724，其中，凸轮舌部724包括第一凸轮壁726、第二凸轮壁728，和第三凸轮壁730。凸轮720还包括把手732。前导轨580包括沟槽750，其包括第一沟槽壁752、第二沟槽壁754和第三沟槽壁756。凸轮720构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间旋转，其中，当凸轮720处于第二位置时，凸轮舌部724与前导轨沟槽750接合，且分隔器壁5560被阻止沿侧向方向移动。凸轮720还构造为在第一位置和第二位置之间滑动。In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 87A-C , thevend display system 10 includes adivider 550 and afront rail 580 .Divider 550 includesdivider wall 556 ,divider floor 554 andbaffle 554 .Cam 720 is rotatably coupled to the front portion offlapper 556 .Cam 720 includescam tongue 724 , whereincam tongue 724 includesfirst cam wall 726 ,second cam wall 728 , andthird cam wall 730 .Cam 720 also includeshandle 732 .Front rail 580 includeschannel 750 includingfirst channel wall 752 ,second channel wall 754 andthird channel wall 756 . Thecam 720 is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position wherein, when thecam 720 is in the second position, thecam tongue 724 engages thefront rail groove 750 and the divider wall 5560 is blocked in the lateral direction move.Cam 720 is also configured to slide between a first position and a second position.
图87A-C示出分隔器550联接至前导轨580的过程。凸轮720在图87B所示的第一位置至图87C所示的第二位置之间移动。如以下所述，当凸轮720处于图87B所示的第一位置时，凸轮720允许分隔器550侧向地沿前导轨580移动或以其他方式平行于前导轨580移动。(在图87B中，分隔器550沿垂直于前导轨580的方向固定，且不能沿垂直方向移动，除非是可存在于分隔器和前导轨之间的非常小量的游隙，其可能不被系统的用户察觉到。)当凸轮720处于图87C所示的第二位置时，凸轮720防止分隔器550侧向地沿前导轨580移动。在一例子中，当凸轮720处于图87C所示的第二位置时，在正常操作条件和力下，凸轮720将防止分隔器550沿前导轨580侧向地移动(且使得分隔器550沿前导轨580不可移动)。在另一例子中，当等于或小于预限定量的力的力被沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向施加到分隔器550时，凸轮720通过防止分隔器550沿前导轨580侧向地移动而阻止分隔器550的移动。当高于预限定大小的力沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向被施加到分隔器550时，分隔器550沿平行于前导轨580的侧向方向移动。87A-C illustrate the process of coupling thedivider 550 to thefront rail 580.Cam 720 moves between a first position shown in Figure 87B to a second position shown in Figure 87C. As described below, whencam 720 is in the first position shown in FIG. 87B ,cam 720 allowsdivider 550 to move laterally along or otherwise parallel tofront rail 580 . (In Figure 87B, thedivider 550 is fixed in a direction perpendicular to thefront rail 580 and cannot move in the vertical direction except for a very small amount of play that may exist between the divider and the front rail, which may not be The user of the system perceives.) When thecam 720 is in the second position shown in Figure 87C, thecam 720 prevents thedivider 550 from moving laterally along thefront rail 580. In one example, when thecam 720 is in the second position shown in Figure 87C, under normal operating conditions and forces, thecam 720 will prevent thedivider 550 from moving laterally along the front rail 580 (and cause thedivider 550 to move along the front rail 580).Rails 580 are not movable). In another example, when a force equal to or less than a predefined amount of force is applied to thedivider 550 in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 , thecam 720 prevents thedivider 550 from moving laterally along thefront rail 580 And the movement of theseparator 550 is prevented. When a force higher than a predetermined magnitude is applied to thedivider 550 in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 , thedivider 550 moves in a lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 .
图87A示出在前导轨580上方提起的分隔器550。在图87B中，分隔器550已经下降并布置为与前导轨580接触。沟槽560已经布置在脊584上，且脊584已经布置有沟槽560。沟槽560和脊584可在该位置彼此接触。沟槽560和脊584也可在该位置中不总是彼此接触。在一些位置中，空间可存在与脊584和沟槽560的表面。挡板556的前部部分也已经布置在通道或沟槽586内。在图87B中，凸轮720的舌部724没有与前导轨580的沟槽750接合。在图87B中，分隔器550可沿通过图86F和86H中的箭头“A”所示的侧向方向移动。分隔器550不需要在前导轨580上方被提起以实现这样的运动。分隔器550可保持与前导轨580接触，并沿方向“A”移动。在移动分隔器550的过程中，产品可布置在分隔器底板554上。移动分隔器550而不使分隔器550与前导轨580分开或不移除产品的能力提供了重新布局设计的简易度。在图87B中，分隔器550可沿着货架平面(货架在图70和71中示出为596)仅沿平行于前导轨580的由图86F和86H中的箭头“A”所示的侧向方向移动。在87B中，在正常操作力和条件下，分隔器550沿货架平面的所有其他方向都不可移动，诸如如图86H的箭头“B”所示的方向。在正常操作力和条件下，分隔器550不能沿货架平面摇摆、旋转、倾斜或鱼尾式摆动，且分隔器550保持垂直于前导轨580。在图87B中，分隔器550可沿图87B中箭头“C”所示的方向移动，且由此从前导轨580提起。图87B中由箭头“C”所示的方面没有沿货架平面。FIG. 87A showsdivider 550 raised overfront rail 580. FIG. In FIG. 87B , thedivider 550 has been lowered and placed into contact with thefront rail 580 . Thegrooves 560 have been arranged on theridges 584 and theridges 584 have been arranged with thegrooves 560 . Thegrooves 560 and theridges 584 may contact each other at this location. Thegrooves 560 andridges 584 may also not always be in contact with each other in this location. In some locations, spaces may exist with the surfaces ofridges 584 andgrooves 560 . The front portion of thebaffle 556 has also been disposed within the channel orgroove 586 . In FIG. 87B , thetongue 724 of thecam 720 is not engaged with thegroove 750 of thefront rail 580 . In Figure 87B, thedivider 550 is movable in the lateral direction shown by arrow "A" in Figures 86F and 86H. Thedivider 550 does not need to be lifted over thefront rail 580 to achieve such movement. Thedivider 550 can remain in contact with thefront rail 580 and move in the direction "A". During the process of moving thedivider 550 , products may be placed on thedivider floor 554 . The ability to movedivider 550 without separatingdivider 550 fromfront rail 580 or removing product provides ease of rearranging the design. In Fig. 87B, thedivider 550 may be along the plane of the shelf (the shelf is shown as 596 in Figs. 70 and 71) only in the lateral direction parallel to thefront rail 580 as indicated by arrow "A" in Figs. 86F and 86H direction to move. In 87B, under normal operating forces and conditions, thedivider 550 is immovable in all other directions of the shelf plane, such as the direction shown by arrow "B" in Figure 86H. Under normal operating forces and conditions, thedivider 550 cannot sway, swivel, tilt, or fishtail along the shelf plane, and thedivider 550 remains perpendicular to thefront rail 580 . In FIG. 87B , thedivider 550 is movable in the direction shown by arrow “C” in FIG. 87B and thus lifted from thefront rail 580 . The aspect shown by arrow "C" in Figure 87B is not along the shelf plane.
在图87C中，凸轮把手732已经朝向前导轨580旋转。在一实施例中，凸轮把手732与前导轨580接触。随着凸轮720从其在图87B中的位置旋转到其在图87C中的位置，凸轮舌部724变为与前导轨580接触，并使前导轨580轻微变形离开凸轮舌部724。随着凸轮720正从其在图87B中的位置旋转到其在图87C中的位置，凸轮第一壁726可与沟槽第三壁756接触。In FIG. 87C , thecam handle 732 has been rotated toward thefront rail 580 . In one embodiment, thecam handle 732 is in contact with thefront rail 580 . As thecam 720 rotates from its position in FIG. 87B to its position in FIG. 87C , thecam tongue 724 comes into contact with thefront rail 580 and slightly deforms thefront rail 580 away from thecam tongue 724 . As thecam 720 is being rotated from its position in FIG. 87B to its position in FIG. 87C , the camfirst wall 726 may contact the groovethird wall 756 .
随着凸轮移动到图87C所示的位置，舌部724可在沟槽750内卡固在位，且舌部724与沟槽750接合。在一实施例中，舌部724与沟槽750完美适配。该完美适配涉及舌部724和沟槽750的接合。前导轨580没有变形，且凸轮720和前导轨580彼此没有张紧力。第一凸轮壁726邻近第一沟槽壁752。第二凸轮壁728邻近第二沟槽壁754。第三凸轮壁730邻近第三沟槽壁756。在一实施例中，凸轮壁和沟槽壁彼此接触。例如，第一凸轮壁726与第一沟槽壁752接触；第二凸轮壁728与第二沟槽壁754接触；第三凸轮壁730与第三沟槽壁756接触。在至少一个实施例中，虽然凸轮壁和沟槽壁彼此接触，它们彼此之间没有明显的张紧力。在另一实施例中，当凸轮壁和沟槽壁彼此接触时，凸轮壁的一个或多个与沟槽壁的一个或多个之间存在张紧力。As the cam moves to the position shown in FIG. 87C , thetongue 724 can snap into place within thegroove 750 and thetongue 724 engages thegroove 750 . In one embodiment,tongue 724 fits perfectly withgroove 750 . This perfect fit involves the engagement oftongue 724 andgroove 750 . Thefront rail 580 is not deformed, and thecam 720 and thefront rail 580 are not in tension with each other. Thefirst cam wall 726 is adjacent to thefirst groove wall 752 . Thesecond cam wall 728 is adjacent to thesecond groove wall 754 . Thethird cam wall 730 is adjacent to thethird groove wall 756 . In one embodiment, the cam wall and the groove wall are in contact with each other. For example, thefirst cam wall 726 is in contact with thefirst groove wall 752 ; thesecond cam wall 728 is in contact with thesecond groove wall 754 ; thethird cam wall 730 is in contact with thethird groove wall 756 . In at least one embodiment, although the cam walls and groove walls are in contact with each other, there is no appreciable tension between them. In another embodiment, there is tension between one or more of the cam walls and one or more of the groove walls when the cam walls and the groove walls are in contact with each other.
在第一凸轮壁726已经布置为与第一沟槽壁752接触的实施例中，第一凸轮壁726的齿接合第一沟槽壁752的齿。齿736接合齿766，且齿738接合齿768。第一凸轮壁的齿和第一沟槽壁的齿的接合向沿着前导轨沿箭头“A”所示的侧向方向移动的分隔器提供阻力(如图86H所示)。In embodiments where thefirst cam wall 726 has been arranged in contact with thefirst groove wall 752 , the teeth of thefirst cam wall 726 engage the teeth of thefirst groove wall 752 . Teeth 736 engageteeth 766 and teeth 738 engageteeth 768 . The engagement of the teeth of the first cam wall and the teeth of the first groove wall provides resistance to the divider moving along the front rail in the lateral direction indicated by arrow "A" (as shown in Figure 86H).
当凸轮舌部724已经布置为与沟槽750完美适配时，存在对分隔器沿着前导轨沿箭头“A”所示的侧向方向(如图86H所示)的移动的明显阻力，在操作期间，在布置在分隔器的正常力下分隔器550将不侧向地移动。When thecam tongue 724 has been arranged to fit perfectly with thegroove 750, there is significant resistance to movement of the divider along the front rail in the lateral direction indicated by arrow "A" (shown in Figure 86H), at During operation, thedivider 550 will not move laterally under normal forces placed on the divider.
当期望再次沿前导轨580移动分隔器550时，凸轮可从前导轨解除卡固。把手732可旋转离开前导轨580。舌部724可从沟槽750脱开接合，并回到其在图87B中的位置。When it is desired to move thedivider 550 along thefront rail 580 again, the cams can be released from the front rail. Thehandle 732 can be rotated away from thefront rail 580 . Thetongue 724 can be disengaged from thegroove 750 and returned to its position in Figure 87B.
在一实施例中，分隔器壁552具有宽度部分的部分(见图85)。分隔器壁552的可以邻近挡板556的前部部分770可具有比分隔器壁552的邻近挡板556的后部部分772大的宽度。前部部分770可通过中间部分774连接至后部部分772。中间部分774的宽度逐渐从分隔器前部部分770的宽度变化到分隔器后部部分772的宽度。在一实施例中，中间部分774的邻近部分770的部分的宽度等于部分770的宽度，且中间部分774邻近部分772的部分的宽度等于部分772的宽度。分隔器壁552的后部部分772的较小宽度产生分隔器壁552之间的空气空间，且当被推压时，有助于防止产品在两个分隔器壁552之间黏着，并且随着产品从售卖系统10前部移除，有助于提供产品沿分隔器底板554的流动。在一例子中，分隔器壁552的前部部分770的宽度至少比分隔器壁552的后部部分772的宽度大25％。In one embodiment, thedivider wall 552 has a portion of the width portion (see Figure 85). Thefront portion 770 of thedivider wall 552 that may be adjacent thebaffle 556 may have a greater width than therear portion 772 of thedivider wall 552 that may be adjacent thebaffle 556 .Front portion 770 may be connected torear portion 772 byintermediate portion 774 . The width of themiddle portion 774 gradually changes from the width of thedivider front portion 770 to the width of the dividerrear portion 772 . In one embodiment, the portion ofintermediate portion 774 adjacent toportion 770 has a width equal to the width ofportion 770 , and the portion ofintermediate portion 774 adjacent toportion 772 has a width equal to the width ofportion 772 . The smaller width of therear portion 772 of thedivider walls 552 creates an air space between thedivider walls 552 and, when pushed, helps prevent product from sticking between the twodivider walls 552, and as The removal of product from the front of thevending system 10 helps to provide flow of the product along thedivider floor 554 . In one example, the width of thefront portion 770 of thedivider wall 552 is at least 25% greater than the width of therear portion 772 of thedivider wall 552 .
在图85-87C所示的实施例中，一个或多个分隔器550可布置为与前导轨580接触。当凸轮720或其他接合构件没有与前导轨580接合时，分隔器550可平行于前导轨580的长度沿箭头“A”(见图86H)所示的侧向方向移动。分隔器550然后可通过将凸轮720卡固到前导轨580中或其他接合构件与之接合而固定在位。分隔器550将在正常操作力下保持固定直到凸轮720或其他接合构件与前导轨580解除卡固或以其他方式与其解除接合。In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 85-87C , one ormore dividers 550 may be arranged in contact with thefront rail 580 . When thecam 720 or other engagement member is not engaged with thefront rail 580, thedivider 550 can move parallel to the length of thefront rail 580 in the lateral direction shown by arrow "A" (see Figure 86H). Thedivider 550 may then be held in place by snapping thecam 720 into thefront rail 580 or engaging other engagement members therewith. Thedivider 550 will remain stationary under normal operating forces until thecam 720 or other engagement member is de-snapped or otherwise disengaged from thefront rail 580 .
在一实施例中，沟槽560的前壁561具有纹路，如图86K所示。该纹路化可以具有粗糙化或小齿的形式。纹路化导致沟槽560的前壁561的表面不光滑。在一实施例中，脊584的前壁585或其他凸伸部或接合构件具有纹路，如图86I、86J和86L所示。该纹路化可以具有粗糙化或小齿的形式，并导致脊584的前壁585的表面不光滑。In one embodiment, thefront wall 561 of thegroove 560 is textured, as shown in FIG. 86K. This texturing may be in the form of roughening or denticles. The texturing results in a non-smooth surface of thefront wall 561 of thegroove 560 . In one embodiment, thefront wall 585 or other projection or engagement member of theridge 584 is textured, as shown in Figures 86I, 86J and 86L. This texturing may be in the form of roughening or denticles and result in a matte surface of thefront wall 585 of theridge 584 .
在图86I所示的至少一个实施例中，挡板556是单独的部件，且可移除地附连至分隔器550。在至少一个实施例中，挡板556可卡固到分隔器壁550的前端部上。在至少一个实施例中，挡板556是可移动的。整个挡板556可移动，或者挡板556的一个或多个部分可移动。例如，挡板556的定位在售卖展示系统10上的产品前方的部分可移动。在至少一个实施例中，挡板556的定位在产品前方的部分可构造为滑动。在替换实施例中，在替换实施例中，挡板556的定位在产品前方的部分可构造为绕轴线旋转，以允许挡板556的该部分打开和关闭。在该实施例中，该轴线可以是铰链连接。另外或替换地，挡板556的该部分可以是安装至分隔器550的弹簧，从而挡板556的该部分需要一定量的力以将其从分隔器550移离。在该实施例中，在释放该力时，挡板556的该部分将靠近或回到其初始位置。用于安装挡板556的示例性方法在美国专利No.8,056,734中进一步描述，其整体在此通过引用而被并入。In at least one embodiment shown in FIG. 86I,baffle 556 is a separate component and is removably attached todivider 550. In at least one embodiment, thebaffle 556 can be snapped onto the front end of thedivider wall 550 . In at least one embodiment, theshutter 556 is movable. Theentire shutter 556 may be movable, or one or more portions of theshutter 556 may be movable. For example, the portion of theshutter 556 positioned in front of the product on thevending display system 10 may be movable. In at least one embodiment, the portion of thebaffle 556 positioned in front of the product can be configured to slide. In alternate embodiments, the portion of theshutter 556 positioned in front of the product may be configured to rotate about an axis to allow the portion of theshutter 556 to open and close. In this embodiment, the axis may be a hinged connection. Additionally or alternatively, the portion of thebaffle 556 may be a spring mounted to thedivider 550 such that the portion of thebaffle 556 requires an amount of force to move it away from thedivider 550 . In this embodiment, when the force is released, the portion of theshutter 556 will approach or return to its original position. Exemplary methods for installingbaffle 556 are further described in US Patent No. 8,056,734, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
在一例子中，分隔器550不包括挡板。替换地，一个或多个挡板可包括在前导轨580中。In one example,divider 550 does not include baffles. Alternatively, one or more baffles may be included in thefront rail 580 .
在一实施例中，当分隔器550布置为与前导轨580接触时，如图87B所示，沟槽560的前壁561没有与脊584的前壁585接触或不总是与之接触，而凸轮720处于图87B所示的位置，凸轮720的舌部没有与前导轨580的沟槽750接合。当凸轮720从图87B所示的第一位置移动到图97C所示的第二位置时，以及舌部724与沟槽750接合时，舌部可迫使分隔器550向后移动。在一实施例中，舌部724和沟槽750之间的张紧力迫使分隔器550沿向后方向移动。当凸轮移动到图87C所示的第二位置时，沟槽560的前壁561变为与脊584的前壁585接触。前壁561与前壁585接合。沟槽560的前壁561上的纹路与脊584的前壁585上的纹路接合。沟槽560的前壁561与脊584的前壁585的接合阻止分隔器550沿着前导轨580沿图86H中的箭头“A”所示的方向的移动。沟槽560的前壁561上的纹路与脊584的前壁585上的纹路的接合进一步阻止分隔器550沿着前导轨580沿图86H中的箭头“A”所示的方向的移动。In one embodiment, when thedivider 550 is arranged in contact with thefront rail 580, as shown in Figure 87B, thefront wall 561 of thegroove 560 does not or does not always contact thefront wall 585 of theridge 584, while Thecam 720 is in the position shown in FIG. 87B with the tongue of thecam 720 not engaged with thegroove 750 of thefront rail 580 . When thecam 720 is moved from the first position shown in FIG. 87B to the second position shown in FIG. 97C, and thetongue 724 engages thegroove 750, the tongue can force thedivider 550 to move rearward. In one embodiment, the tension betweentongue 724 and groove 750 forces divider 550 to move in a rearward direction. When the cam moves to the second position shown in FIG. 87C , thefront wall 561 of thegroove 560 comes into contact with thefront wall 585 of theridge 584 .Front wall 561 engagesfront wall 585 . The texture on thefront wall 561 of thegroove 560 engages the texture on thefront wall 585 of theridge 584 . The engagement of thefront wall 561 of thegroove 560 with thefront wall 585 of theridge 584 prevents movement of thedivider 550 along thefront rail 580 in the direction shown by arrow "A" in Figure 86H. The engagement of the ridges on thefront wall 561 of thegroove 560 with the ridges on thefront wall 585 of theridge 584 further inhibits movement of thedivider 550 along thefront rail 580 in the direction shown by arrow "A" in Figure 86H.
在一例子中，弹性条带或带可包括在前导轨580的脊584或其他凸伸部的顶表面上。当凸轮720或其他接合装置处于第一位置时，弹性条带或带没有压缩。在该第一位置中，分隔器550可沿平行于前导轨的侧向方向移动，但不能沿垂直于前导轨的方向移动。当凸轮720或其他接合装置移动到第二位置时，弹性条带或带变为通过分隔器550的沟槽560，或其他凹部压缩。当弹性条带或带通过沟槽560或其他凹部压缩时，分隔器550变为在正常操作力下沿平行于前导轨580的方向固定。在一例子中，沟槽560或其他凹部的与前导轨580的弹性条带或带接触的部分可包括粗糙部或齿(未示出)。In one example, elastic straps or straps may be included on the top surface of theridges 584 or other projections of thefront rail 580 . When thecam 720 or other engagement device is in the first position, the elastic strap or band is not compressed. In this first position, thedivider 550 is movable in a lateral direction parallel to the front rail, but not in a direction perpendicular to the front rail. When thecam 720 or other engagement device is moved to the second position, the elastic strip or band becomes compressed through thegroove 560 of thedivider 550, or other recess. When the elastic strip or band is compressed through thegroove 560 or other recess, thedivider 550 becomes fixed in a direction parallel to thefront rail 580 under normal operating forces. In one example, the portion of thegroove 560 or other recess that contacts the elastic strip or band of thefront rail 580 may include roughness or teeth (not shown).
在一实施例中，挡板556没有与分隔器壁552和分隔器底板554同时模制。挡板556模制为与分隔器壁552和分隔器底板556分开的部件，如图88A所示。挡板556可由透明材料模制，而分隔器壁552和分隔器底板554可由不透明材料模制。In one embodiment,baffle 556 is not molded at the same time asdivider wall 552 anddivider floor 554 .Baffle 556 is molded as a separate part fromdivider wall 552 anddivider floor 556, as shown in Figure 88A. Thebaffle 556 may be molded from a transparent material, while thedivider walls 552 and thedivider floor 554 may be molded from an opaque material.
在一例子中，分隔器550包括接合构件，其包括平面表面。前导轨580可包括接合构件，其包括平面表面。分隔器的接合构件和/或前导轨的接合构件的平面表面可包括光滑或大体光滑的表面。平面表面可包括弹性表面。平面表面可包括橡胶条带或氯丁橡胶条带或其他可压缩的材料。在一例子中，当分隔器550的接合构件处于第一位置时，其不与前导轨580的接合构件接合，且分隔器550可平行于前导轨侧向地移动。在正常操作条件和力下，当分隔器550的接合构件处于第二位置时，其与前导轨580的接合构件接合，且分隔器固定，且不可平行于前导轨侧向地移动。在前导轨580和分隔器550的接合构件是光滑或大体光滑的表面且不包括齿或其他凸伸部时，分隔器550可具有其他侧向可调整性以及无限或几乎无限侧向可调整性。分隔器550的侧向可调整性没有被突出部或齿的物理尺寸(诸如宽度)限制。无限侧向可调整性通过高效利用侧向空间并限制或最小化产品排之间的未利用或丧失空间，且由此潜在地增加可用空间量和货架上的侧向产品朝向为展示系统提供明显优势。In one example, thedivider 550 includes an engagement member that includes a planar surface.Front rail 580 may include engagement members that include planar surfaces. The planar surfaces of the engagement member of the divider and/or the engagement member of the front rail may comprise smooth or substantially smooth surfaces. The planar surface may comprise an elastic surface. The flat surface may include strips of rubber or neoprene or other compressible material. In one example, when the engagement member of thedivider 550 is in the first position, it is not engaged with the engagement member of thefront rail 580, and thedivider 550 can move laterally parallel to the front rail. Under normal operating conditions and forces, when the engagement member ofdivider 550 is in the second position, it engages the engagement member offront rail 580 and the divider is fixed and cannot move laterally parallel to the front rail.Divider 550 may have additional lateral adjustability and infinite or nearly infinite lateral adjustability when the engagement members offront rail 580 anddivider 550 are smooth or substantially smooth surfaces and do not include teeth or other protrusions . The lateral adjustability of thedivider 550 is not limited by the physical dimensions (such as width) of the protrusions or teeth. Infinite lateral adjustability provides a significant advantage for display systems by efficiently utilizing lateral space and limiting or minimising unused or lost space between product rows, and thereby potentially increasing the amount of available space and lateral product orientation on the shelf Advantage.
在一实施例中，挡板556可卡固配合至或以其他方式与分隔器550接合，如图88B所示。挡板556和分隔器550之间的接合可使得，挡板556不能在正常操作条件下在没有有害影响挡板556或分隔器550的结构的情况下从分隔器550移除。In one embodiment, thebaffle 556 can be snap-fitted or otherwise engaged with thedivider 550, as shown in Figure 88B. The engagement betweenbaffle 556 anddivider 550 may be such thatbaffle 556 cannot be removed fromdivider 550 under normal operating conditions without detrimentally affecting the structure ofbaffle 556 ordivider 550 .
图89A-C示出一步接一步地将分隔器布置到前导轨中的方法的例子。在初始步骤中，如图89A所示，分隔器550可降低为与前导轨590接触。旋转“T”形锁定件900可旋转为在前导轨580上卡固。旋转“T”形锁定件900可附连至分隔器550的前部部分。旋转“T”形锁定件900可绕轴线903旋转。分隔器550可降低并布置为与前导轨580接触，如图89B所示。分隔器550的沟槽560或其他凹部接合前导轨580的脊或舌部584或其他凸伸部。此时，分隔器550可沿前导轨平行于侧向方向移动，且可允许容易的重新布局设计。在一例子中，分隔器550可沿前导轨移动。分隔器550，有或没有产品在分隔器底板554上，可沿之前通过图65中的箭头“A”指示的方向滑动，而不要求分隔器550被举起。在最后步骤中，如图89C所示，旋转“T”形锁定件900可被朝向前导轨580被向前和向后推动。旋转“T”形锁定件900可与前导轨580的前部部分上的唇部901接合。在至少一个实施例中，前导轨580包括顶部前表面902。顶部前表面902可包括纹路或可以是弹性表面，诸如橡胶。替换地，顶部前表面902可包括一个或多个齿。顶部前表面902可与旋转“T”形锁定件900上的表面904接合。表面904可也包括纹路或可以是弹性表面，诸如橡胶。替换地，表面904可包括齿，其构造为接合顶部前表面902上的齿。当旋转“T”形锁定件900接合唇部901时，分隔器550接合至前导轨580，且不能在正常量的力下沿侧向方向移动。Figures 89A-C show an example of a method of step-by-step arrangement of the dividers into the front rail. In an initial step, as shown in FIG. 89A, thedivider 550 may be lowered into contact with thefront rail 590. The rotating "T" shapedlock 900 can be rotated to snap onto thefront rail 580 . A rotating "T" shapedlock 900 may be attached to the front portion of thedivider 550 . Rotating "T" shapedlock 900 is rotatable aboutaxis 903 . Thedivider 550 can be lowered and placed in contact with thefront rail 580, as shown in Figure 89B. Thegrooves 560 or other recesses of thedivider 550 engage the ridges ortongues 584 or other projections of thefront rail 580 . At this time, thedivider 550 can move parallel to the lateral direction along the front rail, and can allow for easy rearrangement of the design. In one example, thedivider 550 is movable along the front rail. Thedivider 550, with or without product on thedivider floor 554, can slide in the direction previously indicated by arrow "A" in Figure 65 without requiring thedivider 550 to be lifted. In a final step, as shown in Figure 89C, the rotary "T" shapedlock 900 can be pushed forward and backward toward thefront rail 580. The rotational "T"lock 900 can engage with thelip 901 on the front portion of thefront rail 580 . In at least one embodiment, thefront rail 580 includes a topfront surface 902 . Topfront surface 902 may include texture or may be a resilient surface, such as rubber. Alternatively, the topfront surface 902 may include one or more teeth. Topfront surface 902 can engage withsurface 904 on rotary "T"lock 900 .Surface 904 may also include texture or may be a resilient surface, such as rubber. Alternatively,surface 904 may include teeth configured to engage teeth on topfront surface 902 . When the rotating "T"lock 900 engages thelip 901, thedivider 550 engages thefront rail 580 and cannot move in the lateral direction with the normal amount of force.
图90A-F示出分隔器550和前导轨580的实施例。如图90A所示，分隔器550包括壁552、底板554和挡板556。分隔器壁552可将分隔器底板554分为两个部分，559和551，分隔器壁552每侧有一个部分。如图90B所示，分隔器壁552可从分隔器底板554垂直地延伸。挡板556可位于分隔器壁552的前部处。如图90C和90F所示，分隔器壁554的底部表面可包括沟槽560或其他凹部、舌部941或其他凸伸部，以及前壁561。在至少一个实施例中，沟槽560的前壁561具有纹路。该纹路化可以具有粗糙化或小齿的形式。纹路化可导致沟槽560的前壁561的表面不光滑。90A-F illustrate an embodiment of adivider 550 and afront rail 580. As shown in FIG. 90A , thedivider 550 includes awall 552 , afloor 554 and abaffle 556 .Divider wall 552 may dividedivider floor 554 into two sections, 559 and 551, one section on each side ofdivider wall 552. As shown in FIG. 90B , thedivider wall 552 may extend vertically from thedivider floor 554 . Abaffle 556 may be located at the front of thedivider wall 552 . As shown in FIGS. 90C and 90F , the bottom surface ofdivider wall 554 may includegrooves 560 or other recesses,tongues 941 or other projections, andfront wall 561 . In at least one embodiment, thefront wall 561 of thegroove 560 is textured. This texturing may have the form of roughening or denticles. The texturing may result in a rough surface of thefront wall 561 of thegroove 560 .
如图90D所示，前导轨580可限定平面表面582、脊或舌部584或其他突出部，第一通道或沟槽586或其他凹部，以及第二通道或沟槽950或其他凹部。分隔器550的前壁561可接合前导轨580的第一沟槽586。前导轨580的脊或舌部584可接合分隔器550的沟槽560。分隔器550的舌部941可接合前导轨580的第二沟槽950。在一实施例中，脊584的前壁585具有纹路。该纹路化可以具有粗糙化或小齿的形式，并导致脊584的前壁585的表面不光滑。脊584的前壁585上的纹路与沟槽560的前壁561上的纹路接合。分隔器550的前壁561接合至第一通道586前导轨580、前导轨580的脊或舌部584接合至分隔器550的沟槽560，以及分隔器550的突出部941接合至前导轨580的第二沟槽950可保持分隔器壁552垂直于前导轨580，并防止分隔器550的后部部分倾斜。在至少一个实施例中，当分隔器550接收侧向力时，分隔器550可平行于前导轨侧向地和/或沿前导轨580移动。As shown in Figure 90D, thefront rail 580 may define aplanar surface 582, a ridge ortongue 584 or other protrusion, a first channel or groove 586 or other recess, and a second channel or groove 950 or other recess. Thefront wall 561 of thedivider 550 can engage thefirst groove 586 of thefront rail 580 . Ridges ortongues 584 offront rail 580 may engagegrooves 560 ofdivider 550 . Thetongue 941 of thedivider 550 can engage thesecond groove 950 of thefront rail 580 . In one embodiment, thefront wall 585 of theridge 584 is textured. This texturing may take the form of roughening or denticles and result in a matte surface of thefront wall 585 of theridge 584 . The texture on thefront wall 585 of theridge 584 engages the texture on thefront wall 561 of thegroove 560 .Front wall 561 ofdivider 550 engagesfirst channel 586front rail 580, ridge ortongue 584 offront rail 580 engagesgroove 560 ofdivider 550, andprotrusion 941 ofdivider 550 engages the Thesecond groove 950 can keep thedivider wall 552 perpendicular to thefront rail 580 and prevent the rear portion of thedivider 550 from tilting. In at least one embodiment, thedivider 550 can move laterally parallel to the front rail and/or along thefront rail 580 when thedivider 550 receives a lateral force.
前导轨580可包括孔951和开口952，如图90E所示。孔951可构造为与相应接合突出部(未示出)接合。在一例子中，接合突出部可以是平的接头器。相应的接合突出部可将一个或多个前导轨580串联连接在一起。孔951和接合突出部的接合可允许一个或多个前导轨580串联连接，即使是前导轨580没有彼此完美对齐时。开口952可构造为接收紧固件，所述紧固件将前导轨580紧固至展示货架。前导轨580可包括任意数量的适于将前导轨580固定至展示货架的开口952。在本发明的范围内可设想任意类型的紧固件。Front rail 580 may includeholes 951 andopenings 952, as shown in Figure 90E. Theholes 951 may be configured to engage with corresponding engagement protrusions (not shown). In one example, the engagement protrusions may be flat connectors. Corresponding engagement tabs may connect one or morefront rails 580 together in series. The engagement of theholes 951 and the engagement protrusions may allow one or more of thefront rails 580 to be connected in series, even when thefront rails 580 are not perfectly aligned with each other. Theopening 952 may be configured to receive fasteners that fasten thefront rail 580 to the display shelf. Thefront rail 580 may include any number ofopenings 952 suitable for securing thefront rail 580 to the display shelf. Any type of fastener is envisaged within the scope of the present invention.
在一例子中，如图91A所示，售卖展示系统10可包括后导轨810。后导轨810可定位在货架后部或后部附近。后导轨810可类似于前导轨580构造，且在此关于前导轨580的内容等同地应用于后导轨810。例如，后导轨810可包括凹部804，其可大体为“u”形。在该实施例中，分隔器550可连接至分隔器块802。分隔器块802则可与后导轨810接合。后导轨810可以是售卖展示系统中的第二导轨，与前导轨580一起。后导轨810可还是售卖展示系统中的唯一导轨。如上所述，前导轨580可定位在售卖展示系统的后部处，且由此用作后导轨810。在至少一个实施例中，所述多个分隔器块802每个在图91A中箭头所知的位置处具有凸轮710(91A中未示出)。该凸轮720可从第一位置旋转到第二位置，且具有和与前导轨580接合的分隔器的凸轮720相同的作用。分隔器块802还可包括其他接合装置，包括在此描述的用于分隔器550的接合装置，其与后导轨810接合。后导轨810的使用可将分隔器550的后部保持在位，并防止产品移动到顶推器520后面的位置。为了将分隔器550从后导轨810解锁，720或其他接合装置被旋转离开后导轨810或以其他方式与后导轨810脱开。In one example, as shown in FIG. 91A , thevending display system 10 may include arear rail 810 . Therear rail 810 may be positioned at or near the rear of the shelf. Therear rail 810 may be constructed similarly to thefront rail 580 , and what is said herein with respect to thefront rail 580 applies equally to therear rail 810 . For example,rear rail 810 may includerecess 804, which may be generally "u" shaped. In this embodiment,divider 550 may be connected todivider block 802 . Thedivider block 802 can then be engaged with therear rail 810 . Therear rail 810 may be the second rail in the vending display system, along with thefront rail 580 . Therear rail 810 may also be the only rail in the vending display system. As mentioned above, thefront rail 580 may be positioned at the rear of the vending display system and thus function as therear rail 810 . In at least one embodiment, the plurality of divider blocks 802 each have a cam 710 (not shown in 91A) at a location known by the arrow in Figure 91A. Thecam 720 is rotatable from the first position to the second position and has the same function as thecam 720 of the divider that engages thefront rail 580 .Divider block 802 may also include other engagement means, including the engagement means described herein fordivider 550 , which engagerear rail 810 . The use of therear rail 810 can hold the rear of thedivider 550 in place and prevent product from moving to a position behind theejector 520 . To unlockdivider 550 fromrear rail 810 , 720 or other engagement device is rotated away from or otherwise disengaged fromrear rail 810 .
在一例子中，分隔器550可布置为与前导轨580接触。沟槽560可布置在脊584上，且脊584可布置在沟槽560内。沟槽560和脊584可在该位置彼此接触。分隔器550可还布置为与后导轨810接触。分隔器550内的沟槽或其他凹部可布置在后导轨810的脊或其他凸伸部上，后导轨810的脊或其他凸伸部可布置在分隔器550内的沟槽或其他凹部内。分隔器550可同时与前导轨580和后导轨810接触。分隔器前方的接合装置，诸如凸轮720，可以在一位置使得，分隔器550可平行于前导轨580和后导轨810侧向地移动，但分隔器550沿垂直于前导轨580或后导轨810的方向(前导轨580和后导轨810之间的方向)不可移动。分隔器块802可还包括接合装置(未示出)，诸如凸轮720或其他关于前导轨810在此所述的接合装置。分隔器块802上的接合装置可在一位置使得，分隔器550可平行于前导轨580和后导轨810侧向地移动，但分隔器550沿垂直于前导轨580或后导轨810的方向(前导轨580和后导轨810之间的方向)不可移动。In one example, thedivider 550 may be arranged in contact with thefront rail 580 . Thegrooves 560 can be disposed on theridges 584 and theridges 584 can be disposed within thegrooves 560 . Thegrooves 560 and theridges 584 may contact each other at this location. Thedivider 550 may also be arranged in contact with therear rail 810 . The grooves or other recesses in thedivider 550 may be disposed on the ridges or other protrusions of therear rail 810 , and the ridges or other protrusions of therear rail 810 may be disposed in the grooves or other recesses in thedivider 550 . Thedivider 550 may be in contact with thefront rail 580 and therear rail 810 at the same time. Engagement means in front of the divider, such ascam 720 , can be in a position such thatdivider 550 can move laterally parallel tofront rail 580 andrear rail 810 , butdivider 550 moves in a direction perpendicular tofront rail 580 orrear rail 810 . The direction (the direction between thefront rail 580 and the rear rail 810) is not movable.Divider block 802 may also include engagement means (not shown), such ascam 720 or other engagement means described herein with respect tofront rail 810 . The engagement means ondivider block 802 can be in a position such thatdivider 550 can move laterally parallel tofront rail 580 andrear rail 810, butdivider 550 is in a direction perpendicular tofront rail 580 or rear rail 810 (front and rear). the direction between therail 580 and the rear rail 810) is not movable.
在一例子中，分隔器550的前部上的接合装置可以移动到第二位置。在第二位置中，在正常操作力下，分隔器550沿平行于前导轨580的方向固定。分隔器块802上的接合装置可还移动到第二位置。在第二位置中，分隔器块802上的接合装置使得分隔器550在正常操作力下沿平行于后导轨810的方向固定。前导轨580、分隔器550和后导轨810可形成刚性托盘，其可作为一个单元从一个位置移动到另一个位置。前导轨580、后导轨810和多个分隔器550可在远离货架的位置处被预先组装，并形成为刚性托盘。前导轨580、后导轨810和多个分隔器550然后可移动到货架，并通过一个或多个紧固件固定到货架。In one example, the engagement means on the front of thedivider 550 can be moved to the second position. In the second position, thedivider 550 is fixed in a direction parallel to thefront rail 580 under normal operating force. The engagement means on thedivider block 802 can also be moved to a second position. In the second position, the engagement means on thedivider block 802 secure thedivider 550 in a direction parallel to therear rail 810 under normal operating forces.Front rail 580,divider 550, andrear rail 810 can form a rigid tray that can be moved from one location to another as a unit. Thefront rail 580, therear rail 810, and the plurality ofdividers 550 may be pre-assembled at a location remote from the shelf and formed into a rigid tray. Thefront rail 580, therear rail 810, and the plurality ofdividers 550 can then be moved to the shelf and secured to the shelf by one or more fasteners.
在一实施例中，售卖展示系统可包括挡板，其通过在折叠位置和竖立位置之间旋转而可移动，而不需要例如专用于将挡板偏压至竖立位置的旋转偏压元件(例如弹簧加载铰链)的辅助。图95至106示出了示例性系统的各种示例性方面，该系统可包括挡板，其能在折叠位置和竖立位置之间移动而不需要借助于旋转偏压元件。在一实施例中，系统可包括分隔器组件550，其配置为固定至支撑结构。如这里所用的，分隔器组件550还可被称为分隔器550。支撑结构可包括例如前导轨580。在一实施例中，分隔器550可包括前端553和后端555。如这里使用的关于包括旋转挡板的实施例的沿向前方向的移动是通过从后端555朝向前端553的移动限定。例如，图99B和100D中示出的箭头F指向向前方向。如这里使用的关于包括旋转挡板的实施例的沿向后方向的移动是通过从前端553朝向后端555的移动限定。例如，图99A和100C中示出的箭头R指向向后方向。如这里使用的关于包括旋转挡板的实施例的沿横向方向的移动是通过从例如由图65、100A和103A中的箭头A所示的方向的运动限定。在一实施例中，分隔器550可包括分隔器壁552，其具有右侧表面552a和左侧表面552b。在一实施例中，分隔器壁552可从分隔器550的前端553延伸至后端555。在一实施例中，分隔器壁552可从分隔器底板554向上延伸。分隔器底板可包括顶表面554a和底表面554b。在一实施例中，分隔器壁552将分隔器底板554分为分隔器550的每侧上的第一侧部分559和第二侧部分551。分隔器底板554的第一侧部分559还可被称为分隔器底板554的有侧部分559，第二侧部分551还可被称为分隔器底板554的做侧部分551。In one embodiment, the vending display system may include a flap that is movable by rotation between a folded position and an upright position without requiring, for example, a rotary biasing element dedicated to biasing the flap to the upright position (eg, spring-loaded hinges). 95-106 illustrate various exemplary aspects of an exemplary system that can include a flap that can be moved between a folded position and an upright position without resorting to a rotational biasing element. In an embodiment, the system may include adivider assembly 550 configured to be secured to a support structure. As used herein,divider assembly 550 may also be referred to asdivider 550 . The support structure may include, for example, front rails 580 . In one embodiment,divider 550 may includefront end 553 andrear end 555 . Movement in the forward direction as used herein with respect to embodiments including a rotating baffle is defined by movement fromrear end 555 towardsfront end 553 . For example, arrow F shown in Figures 99B and 100D points in the forward direction. Movement in the rearward direction as used herein with respect to embodiments including a rotating baffle is defined by movement fromfront end 553 towardsrear end 555 . For example, the arrow R shown in FIGS. 99A and 100C points in the rearward direction. Movement in the lateral direction as used herein with respect to embodiments including rotating baffles is defined by movement from the direction shown, for example, by arrow A in Figures 65, 100A and 103A. In one embodiment, thedivider 550 may include adivider wall 552 having aright side surface 552a and aleft side surface 552b. In one embodiment,divider wall 552 may extend fromfront end 553 torear end 555 ofdivider 550 . In one embodiment, thedivider wall 552 may extend upwardly from thedivider floor 554 . The divider floor may include atop surface 554a and abottom surface 554b. In one embodiment, thedivider wall 552 divides thedivider floor 554 into afirst side portion 559 and asecond side portion 551 on each side of thedivider 550 . Thefirst side portion 559 of thedivider floor 554 may also be referred to as theside portion 559 of thedivider floor 554 , and thesecond side portion 551 may also be referred to as theside portion 551 of thedivider floor 554 .
在一实施例中，挡板556通过在例如用于分隔器的右侧上的挡板556a的图96B中所示的折叠位置至例如用于两个挡板556a、556b的图96A中所示的竖立位置旋转而可移动。在一实施例中，挡板556可被连接至旋转安装结构563。在一实施例中，旋转安装结构563可被直接连接至分隔器。在一实施例中，如上关于图102和103中所示实例讨论，旋转安装结构563可被可去除地连接至分隔器。参考图97，在一实施例中，旋转安装结构563可为肘部565和销566类型铰链。在一实施例中，旋转安装结构563可为柔性构件，例如柔性聚合物或金属部件。In one embodiment, theflap 556 passes from the folded position shown in Figure 96B, eg, forflap 556a on the right side of the divider, to, eg, Figure 96A for bothflaps 556a, 556b The upright position can be rotated and moved. In one embodiment, thebaffle 556 may be connected to theswivel mounting structure 563 . In one embodiment, theswivel mounting structure 563 may be directly connected to the divider. In one embodiment, as discussed above with respect to the example shown in Figures 102 and 103, theswivel mounting structure 563 may be removably attached to the divider. Referring to Figure 97, in one embodiment, theswivel mounting structure 563 may be anelbow 565 and pin 566 type hinge. In one embodiment, therotational mounting structure 563 may be a flexible member, such as a flexible polymer or metal part.
在一实施例中，当产品沿向前方向朝向分隔器550的前端553移动时当位于分隔器底板554的顶表面554a上的产品可接触挡板556时挡板556可被认为定位在分隔器550的前端553附近。在一实施例中，旋转安装结构563邻近且连接至分隔器550的前端553和/或分隔器底板554。例如，参考图95、96A和96B，挡板556a被示出定位为邻近且连接至分隔器550的前端553和分隔器底板554。在一实施例中，挡板556可被定位为邻接分隔器550的前端553和/或分隔器底板554同时被从分隔器底板554或前端553之一间隔开和/或没有直接连接至其。例如，在一实施例中，挡板可被可去除地连接至前导轨580且不连接至分隔器550但是定位为足够靠近分隔器从而当产品沿向前方向移动时(未示出)位于分隔器底板554的顶表面上的产品可接触挡板556。在这种实例中，挡板556可被认为定位为邻近分隔器550的前端553。在一实施例中，挡板556可被定位为邻近分隔器的前端且被连接至分隔器壁。在一实施例中，当朝向折叠位置移动时(未示出)挡板可朝向分隔器壁折叠。In one embodiment, thebaffle 556 may be considered to be positioned on the divider when the product on thetop surface 554a of thedivider floor 554 may contact thebaffle 556 as the product moves in the forward direction toward thefront end 553 of thedivider 550. 550 near the front end of 553. In one embodiment, theswivel mounting structure 563 is adjacent to and connected to thefront end 553 of thedivider 550 and/or thedivider bottom plate 554 . For example, referring to Figures 95, 96A and 96B, baffle 556a is shown positioned adjacent to and connected tofront end 553 ofdivider 550 anddivider floor 554. In an embodiment, baffle 556 may be positioned adjacent tofront end 553 ofdivider 550 and/ordivider floor 554 while being spaced from and/or not directly connected to one ofdivider floor 554 orfront end 553 . For example, in one embodiment, the baffle may be removably attached to thefront rail 580 and not attached to thedivider 550 but positioned close enough to the divider to be in the divider when the product is moved in the forward direction (not shown) Product on the top surface of thebottom plate 554 may contact thebaffle 556 . In such an example, baffle 556 may be considered to be positioned adjacent tofront end 553 ofdivider 550 . In one embodiment, thebaffle 556 may be positioned adjacent the front end of the divider and connected to the divider wall. In one embodiment, the baffle can be folded towards the divider wall when moved towards the folded position (not shown).
参考图98A-C，在一实施例中，挡板556被配置为在竖立位置和折叠位置之间旋转。示例性竖立位置被示出在图98A中且示例性折叠位置被示出在图98C中。在一实施例中，挡板556的顶边缘568可沿图98A中B所示的弧旋转。例如，沿向后方向R施加至竖立位置中的挡板556的力可导致挡板朝向折叠位置旋转，如图98B所示，以达到例如图98C中所示的折叠位置。此外，例如，通过用手指拉或推挡板柄567挡板556可被手动旋转以相应地将挡板升高至竖立位置或将挡板下降至折叠位置。在一实施例中，挡板556的顶边缘568可沿B和C的整弧旋转以使得顶边缘接触分隔器底板的顶表面(未示出)。Referring to Figures 98A-C, in one embodiment, theflap 556 is configured to rotate between an upright position and a folded position. An example upright position is shown in Figure 98A and an example folded position is shown in Figure 98C. In one embodiment, thetop edge 568 of thebaffle 556 may rotate along the arc shown in B in Figure 98A. For example, a force applied to theflap 556 in the upright position in the rearward direction R may cause the flap to rotate toward the folded position, as shown in Figure 98B, to achieve the folded position, eg, shown in Figure 98C. Additionally, for example, by pulling or pushing the shutter handle 567 with a finger, theshutter 556 can be manually rotated to raise the shutter to an upright position or lower the shutter to a folded position, respectively. In one embodiment, thetop edge 568 of thebaffle 556 can be rotated along a full arc of B and C such that the top edge contacts the top surface (not shown) of the divider floor.
在一实施例中，在折叠位置中，挡板556限定挡板的后表面569和分隔器底板的顶表面554a之间的折叠角度C。在一实施例中，折叠角度C在约45度至约20度之间。在一实施例中，折叠角度C在约30度和15度之间。这里关于包括旋转挡板的实施例所用的术语“约”表示所述值的正或负5％。在一实施例中，折叠角度是约20度。In one embodiment, in the folded position, thebaffle 556 defines a folding angle C between therear surface 569 of the baffle and thetop surface 554a of the divider floor. In one embodiment, the folding angle C is between about 45 degrees and about 20 degrees. In one embodiment, the folding angle C is between about 30 degrees and 15 degrees. The term "about" as used herein with respect to embodiments including rotating baffles means plus or minus 5% of the stated value. In one embodiment, the folding angle is about 20 degrees.
在一实施例中，折叠挡止结构570被配置为阻止挡板556朝向分隔器底板554的旋转和将挡板保持在折叠位置中的期望折叠角度C处。在一实施例中，折叠挡止结构570是定位在挡板的后表面569的下部附近的突出部。在一实施例中，折叠挡止结构被连接至分隔器底板的顶表面554a以使得当挡板达到折叠位置中的折叠角度C时挡板的后表面的下部587接触折叠挡止结构570。在一实施例中，折叠挡止结构被连接至挡板的后表面的下部以使得当挡板达到折叠位置中的期望折叠角度时(未示出)折叠挡止结构接触分隔器底板的顶表面。在一实施例中，折叠挡止结构是固定至或与分隔器底板554为整体的板或台或延伸部。在一实施例中，分隔器底板阻止挡板556变为完全水平。挡板556被配置为使得当挡板556被旋转至折叠位置时，挡板处于从水平的一角度处。该角度可为约10度、15度、20度或约20-45度之间或约10-35度之间。在一实施例中，挡板具有水平部分和垂直部分，其允许挡板556在挡板556与分隔器底板554接触时处于至分隔器底板的预定角度。在一实施例中，挡止结构570不存在且挡板556直接在分隔器底板的水平顶表面554a上接触分隔器底板554。In one embodiment, thefold stop structure 570 is configured to prevent rotation of theflap 556 toward thedivider floor 554 and to maintain the flap at a desired fold angle C in the folded position. In one embodiment, thefold stop structure 570 is a protrusion positioned near the lower portion of therear surface 569 of the baffle. In one embodiment, the fold stop structure is attached to thetop surface 554a of the divider floor such that thelower portion 587 of the rear surface of the flap contacts thefold stop structure 570 when the flap reaches the folded angle C in the folded position. In one embodiment, the fold stop structure is attached to the lower portion of the rear surface of the baffle such that the fold stop structure contacts the top surface of the divider floor when the baffle reaches the desired fold angle in the folded position (not shown) . In one embodiment, the fold stop structure is a plate or table or extension that is fixed to or integral with thedivider floor 554 . In one embodiment, the divider floor prevents baffle 556 from becoming fully horizontal. Theflap 556 is configured such that when theflap 556 is rotated to the folded position, the flap is at an angle from horizontal. The angle may be between about 10 degrees, 15 degrees, 20 degrees, or between about 20-45 degrees or between about 10-35 degrees. In one embodiment, the baffle has a horizontal portion and a vertical portion that allows thebaffle 556 to be at a predetermined angle to the divider floor when thebaffle 556 is in contact with thedivider floor 554 . In one embodiment, thestop structure 570 is absent and thebaffle 556 directly contacts thedivider floor 554 on the horizontaltop surface 554a of the divider floor.
参考图99A-C，在一实施例中，当挡板处于折叠位置时沿向前方向施加至定位为与挡板556的后表面569的至少一部分接触的产品上的力可导致挡板从折叠位置旋转至竖立位置。例如，参考图99A，产品可被放置在分隔器底板554的顶表面554a上同时挡板处于折叠位置。在一实施例中，力可被施加至产品以沿向前方向将产品朝向挡板移动，例如图99B中所示。在一实施例中，力是重力。例如，定位为使得前端553相对于后端向下成角度的分隔器550可导致位于其上的产品通过重力而单朝向前端553移动。在一实施例中，力可通过顶推器机构520施加。在一实施例中，顶推器机构520可被沿向前方向偏压且可被配置为跨分隔器底板滑动和沿向前方向移动产品。在一实施例中，挡板的后表面569的顶边缘568被倒圆或限定弯曲或有半径表面。挡板的后表面的顶部的倒圆边缘辅助挡板的旋转，例如通过当产品向前移动时当挡板的运动矢量改变同时朝向竖立位置旋转时允许挡板556滑动或滑上产品的表面。此外，例如，当产品向前移动且倒圆边缘移动上产品的表面时，倒圆边缘防止边缘戳入产品包装的表面且保持倒圆边缘和产品之间的低摩擦。在一实施例中，挡板的顶部可包括其它结构以便于挡板滑上产品的表面，例如滚子结构。在一实施例中，当挡板达到竖立位置时，挡板停止旋转且停止产品沿向前方向的移动。在一实施例中，垂直挡止结构被配置为挡止挡板在向前位置中的旋转且建立挡板的竖立位置。在一实施例中，垂直挡止结构可为旋转安装结构上的垂直表面571和挡板556上的相对垂直表面572。Referring to Figures 99A-C, in one embodiment, a force applied in a forward direction to a product positioned in contact with at least a portion of therear surface 569 of thebaffle 556 when the baffle is in the folded position may cause the baffle to fold from its folded position. The position is rotated to the upright position. For example, referring to Figure 99A, a product may be placed on thetop surface 554a of thedivider floor 554 with the baffle in the folded position. In one embodiment, a force may be applied to the product to move the product toward the baffle in a forward direction, such as shown in Figure 99B. In one embodiment, the force is gravity. For example, adivider 550 positioned such that thefront end 553 is angled downward relative to the rear end may cause the product thereon to move by gravity alone toward thefront end 553. In one embodiment, the force may be applied by theejector mechanism 520 . In an embodiment, theejector mechanism 520 can be biased in a forward direction and can be configured to slide across the divider floor and move the product in the forward direction. In one embodiment, thetop edge 568 of therear surface 569 of the baffle is rounded or defines a curved or radiused surface. The rounded edge of the top of the back surface of the baffle assists in the rotation of the baffle, for example by allowing thebaffle 556 to slide or slide over the surface of the product when the baffle's motion vector changes while rotating toward the upright position as the product moves forward. Additionally, for example, when the product is moved forward and the rounded edge moves over the surface of the product, the rounded edge prevents the edge from poking into the surface of the product package and maintains low friction between the rounded edge and the product. In one embodiment, the top of the baffle may include other structures to facilitate the baffle to slide over the surface of the product, such as a roller structure. In one embodiment, when the shutter reaches the upright position, the shutter stops rotating and stops the movement of the product in the forward direction. In an embodiment, the vertical stop structure is configured to stop rotation of the baffle in the forward position and establish an upright position of the baffle. In one embodiment, the vertical stop structure may be avertical surface 571 on the rotating mounting structure and an oppositevertical surface 572 on thebaffle 556 .
参考图100A-D，在一实施例中，上述实例中描述的旋转挡板可被用在例如包括一对分隔器550a、550b和顶推器机构520的售卖展示系统的实施例中。分隔器550a、550b可在分隔器的相对壁之间限定产品容器573。产品容器573可例如具有宽度，其稍微大于要被在系统中展示的产品。在一实施例中，挡板可被定位在图100B中所示的折叠位置中，以便于产品在系统中的放置。此外，在一实施例中，产品在竖立位置中的挡板的前表面556f上的手动定位和沿向后方向将产品顶推在挡板的前表面556f上可导致挡板旋转至折叠位置且允许产品容易地插入到产品容器573中，如图100C中所示。在一实施例中，一旦产品被定位在分隔器底板的顶表面上的产品容器中且压靠顶推器机构的前表面，其然后被释放，顶推器机构沿向前方向F顶推产品且导致产品将挡板从折叠位置旋转至竖立位置，如图100D中所示，其中产品的向前移动然后被停止。Referring to Figures 100A-D, in one embodiment, the rotating baffles described in the above examples may be used in an embodiment of a vending display system including a pair ofdividers 550a, 550b and apusher mechanism 520, for example. Thedividers 550a, 550b may define aproduct container 573 between opposing walls of the dividers. Theproduct container 573 may, for example, have a width that is slightly larger than the product to be displayed in the system. In one embodiment, the baffle may be positioned in the folded position shown in Figure 100B to facilitate placement of the product in the system. Additionally, in one embodiment, manual positioning of the product on thefront surface 556f of the flap in the upright position and pushing the product against thefront surface 556f of the flap in the rearward direction may cause the flap to rotate to the folded position and The product is allowed to be easily inserted into theproduct container 573, as shown in Figure 100C. In one embodiment, once the product is positioned in the product container on the top surface of the divider floor and pressed against the front surface of the ejector mechanism, which is then released, the ejector mechanism ejects the product in the forward direction F And the product is caused to rotate the flap from the folded position to the upright position, as shown in Figure 100D, where forward movement of the product is then stopped.
在一实施例中，旋转安装结构563可被可去除地连接至分隔器550、前导轨580或货架234。在一实施例中，旋转安装结构563可去除地连接至分隔器550的前端553。参考图102A-D和103A-E，示例性可去除旋转安装结构563可包括垂直立柱591、水平横梁593和连接至水平横梁593的旋转安装件597a、597b。在一实施例中，垂直立柱591可为沿垂直方向取向的细长柱，水平横梁593可为沿横向方向水平地取向的细长梁。在一实施例中，立柱可包括邻近立柱的顶部部分的抓持结构，以便于旋转安装结构563在分隔器550上的插入和去除。在一实施例中，水平横梁593被连接至垂直立柱591且从垂直立柱的相对侧以交叉状的方式延伸以使得水平横梁593的左侧段593b沿横向方向从垂直立柱591的左侧591b延伸且右侧段593a沿横向方向从垂直立柱591的右侧591a延伸。在一实施例中，右旋转安装件597a被连接至水平横梁593的右侧段593a，左旋转安装件597b被连接至水平横梁593的左侧段593b。在一实施例中，水平横梁的每个段593a、593b延伸至约等于分隔器底板554的相应侧部559、551的宽度的长度。In one embodiment, theswivel mounting structure 563 may be removably attached to thedivider 550 , thefront rail 580 , or theshelf 234 . In one embodiment, theswivel mounting structure 563 is removably attached to thefront end 553 of thedivider 550 . Referring to FIGS. 102A-D and 103A-E, an exemplary removableswivel mounting structure 563 may includevertical posts 591 ,horizontal beams 593 , andswivel mounts 597a , 597b connected to thehorizontal beams 593 . In one embodiment, thevertical columns 591 can be elongated columns oriented in a vertical direction, and thehorizontal beams 593 can be elongated beams oriented horizontally in a lateral direction. In one embodiment, the post may include a gripping structure adjacent the top portion of the post to facilitate insertion and removal of theswivel mounting structure 563 on thedivider 550 . In one embodiment,horizontal beams 593 are connected tovertical uprights 591 and extend in a cross-like fashion from opposite sides of the vertical uprights such thatleft side segments 593b ofhorizontal crossbeams 593 extend from left sides 591b ofvertical uprights 591 in a lateral direction And theright side segment 593a extends from theright side 591a of thevertical column 591 in the lateral direction. In one embodiment,right swivel mount 597a is attached toright side section 593a ofhorizontal beam 593 andleft swivel mount 597b is attached to leftside section 593b ofhorizontal beam 593 . In one embodiment, eachsegment 593a , 593b of the horizontal beam extends to a length approximately equal to the width of thecorresponding side portion 559 , 551 of thedivider floor 554 .
在一实施例中，旋转安装可包括肘和销类型铰链或柔性构件。在一实施例中，其中旋转安装件597a是肘和销铰链，旋转安装件597a可包括第一肘部件601且挡板可包括第二肘部件602，第一和第二肘部件互补以使得销566可延伸穿过第一和第二肘部件以形成铰链用于挡板556a至旋转安装件597a和旋转安装结构563的旋转附连。In one embodiment, the swivel mount may include a toggle and pin type hinge or flexible member. In an embodiment wherein theswivel mount 597a is a toggle and pin hinge, theswivel mount 597a may include afirst toggle 601 and the baffle may include asecond toggle 602, the first and second toggle being complementary such that thepin 566 may extend through the first and second toggle members to form a hinge for rotational attachment of theflap 556a to theswivel mount 597a and swivelmount structure 563.
在一实施例中，旋转安装结构597a包括折叠挡止结构570a，其被配置为挡止挡板556a朝向分隔器底板554a的旋转且保持用于折叠位置的期望的折叠角度C。在一实施例中，折叠挡止结构570a是板603，其从旋转安装597或水平横梁593a延伸且与其为整体，板603具有升高或成角度部分615，其配置为限定折叠角度C。在一实施例中，如上所述，折叠挡止结构被连接至挡板的后表面569的下部以使得当挡板达到折叠位置中的期望折叠角度时(未示出)折叠挡止结构接触分隔器底板554的顶表面或板603。在一实施例中，折叠挡止机构与分隔器底板为整体。In one embodiment, theswivel mounting structure 597a includes afold stop structure 570a configured to block rotation of theflapper 556a toward thedivider floor 554a and maintain a desired fold angle C for the folded position. In one embodiment, thefold stop structure 570a is aplate 603 extending from and integral with theswivel mount 597 orhorizontal beam 593a, theplate 603 having a raised orangled portion 615 configured to define a folding angle C. In one embodiment, as described above, the fold stop structure is attached to the lower portion of therear surface 569 of the flap so that the fold stop structure contacts the divider when the flap reaches the desired fold angle (not shown) in the folded position The top surface orplate 603 of thebottom plate 554 of the device. In one embodiment, the fold stop mechanism is integral with the divider bottom plate.
在一实施例中，旋转安装结构597a包括垂直挡止结构，其被配置为挡止挡板在向前位置中的旋转且建立挡板的竖立位置。在一实施例中，垂直挡止结构可为旋转安装件上的垂直表面571和挡板556上的相对垂直表面572。在一实施例中，旋转安装件的垂直挡止结构的垂直表面可在限定在旋转安装件597a内的安装凹部604内，且挡板556上的相对垂直表面572可在挡板的底部部分上形成的凸片605上。安装凹部604可为与凸片605互补的形状，以使得当挡板沿向前方向旋转时凸片配合至安装凹部604中。In one embodiment, therotational mounting structure 597a includes a vertical stop structure configured to stop rotation of the baffle in the forward position and establish an upright position of the baffle. In one embodiment, the vertical stop structure may be avertical surface 571 on the rotating mount and an oppositevertical surface 572 on thebaffle 556 . In one embodiment, the vertical surface of the vertical stop structure of the swivel mount may be within the mountingrecess 604 defined in theswivel mount 597a, and the oppositevertical surface 572 on thebaffle 556 may be on the bottom portion of the baffle formed on thetab 605. The mounting recesses 604 may be shaped complementary to thetabs 605 such that the tabs fit into the mountingrecesses 604 when the baffle is rotated in the forward direction.
在一实施例中，立柱591可包括限定在立柱中的安装槽598，其被配置为与分隔器550的前脊599匹配以可去除地连接旋转安装结构563至分隔器550的前端553。在一实施例中，利用卡子、凸轮或其它联接结构，旋转安装结构可去除地连接分隔器。In one embodiment, thepost 591 can include a mountingslot 598 defined in the post that is configured to mate with thefront ridge 599 of thedivider 550 to removably connect theswivel mounting structure 563 to thefront end 553 of thedivider 550 . In one embodiment, the swivel mounting structure removably connects the dividers using clips, cams, or other coupling structures.
在一实施例中，参考图104A-G，示例性可去除旋转安装结构563可包括水平横梁593和连接至水平横梁593的旋转安装件597a、597b。在一实施例中，水平横梁593沿横向方向延伸且具有约等于分隔器底板554的相应侧部559、551的宽度的长度。在一实施例中，右旋转安装件597a被连接至水平横梁593的右侧段593a，左旋转安装件597b被连接至水平横梁593的左侧段593b。在一实施例中，如图104A-104G所示，水平横梁593配置为具有低姿态，其中横梁在分隔器块802撒花姑娘的高度最小化。低姿水平横梁593可提供更多的空间，用于产品从向前方向在可去除旋转安装结构563上插入售卖展示系统。In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 104A-G , an exemplary removableswivel mounting structure 563 may include ahorizontal beam 593 andswivel mounts 597a , 597b connected to thehorizontal beam 593 . In one embodiment, thehorizontal beams 593 extend in the lateral direction and have a length approximately equal to the width of therespective sides 559 , 551 of thedivider floor 554 . In one embodiment,right swivel mount 597a is attached toright side section 593a ofhorizontal beam 593 andleft swivel mount 597b is attached to leftside section 593b ofhorizontal beam 593 . In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 104A-104G , thehorizontal beam 593 is configured to have a low profile, wherein the height of the beam at thedivider block 802 is minimized. The low profilehorizontal beam 593 may provide more space for product insertion into the vending display system on the removableswivel mounting structure 563 from a forward direction.
在一实施例中，水平横梁593可包括水平横梁的前延伸部593c，其朝向分隔器块802的前部延伸。在一实施例中，水平横梁593的前延伸部593c可在分隔器块802的前部的前方延伸，且包括延伸钩593e，其配置为从前延伸部的前端向下延伸以使得当可去除安装结构被固定就位与分隔器上时延伸钩被定位在分隔器块802的前部。在一实施例中，旋转安装结构包括前延伸部593c和延伸钩593e，其从水平横梁593的右侧段593a延伸，以及前延伸部593d和延伸钩593f，其从水平横梁593的左侧段593b延伸。前延伸部593c、593d和延伸钩593e、593f可例如辅助可去除安装结构在分隔器上的稳定。In one embodiment, thehorizontal beam 593 may include afront extension 593c of the horizontal beam that extends toward the front of thedivider block 802 . In one embodiment, thefront extension 593c of thehorizontal beam 593 may extend forward of the front of thedivider block 802 and includeextension hooks 593e configured to extend downwardly from the front end of the front extension so that when removably installed The extension hooks are positioned at the front of thedivider block 802 when the structure is secured in place with the divider. In one embodiment, the swivel mounting structure includes afront extension 593c andextension hooks 593e extending from theright side section 593a of thehorizontal beam 593 and afront extension 593d and extension hooks 593f from the left side section of thehorizontal beam 593 593b extension. Thefront extensions 593c, 593d and extension hooks 593e, 593f may, for example, assist in the stabilization of the removable mounting structure on the divider.
在一实施例中，可去除安装结构563包括第一板603a，其从右旋转安装件597a或水平横梁593的右侧段593a延伸，以及第二板603b，其从左旋转安装件597b或水平横梁593的左侧段593b延伸。在一实施例中，板603a、603b可沿横向方向从旋转安装件597a、597b的两侧延伸。在一实施例中，板603a、693b的内边缘可被配置为限定安装槽598，其配置为匹配分隔器550的前脊599内的可去除安装结构563以可去除地连接旋转安装结构563至分隔器550的前端553。在一实施例中，每个板603a、603b可包括折叠挡止结构570a、570b。在一实施例中，折叠挡止结构可包括升高或成角度部分615a、615b，其配置为限定折叠角度C。In one embodiment, theremovable mounting structure 563 includes afirst plate 603a extending from theright swivel mount 597a orright side section 593a of thehorizontal beam 593, and asecond plate 603b extending from theleft swivel mount 597b or horizontal Theleft side section 593b of thebeam 593 extends. In one embodiment, theplates 603a, 603b may extend from both sides of the swivel mounts 597a, 597b in a lateral direction. In one embodiment, the inner edges of theplates 603a, 693b may be configured to define mountingslots 598 configured to mate with the removable mountingstructures 563 within thefront ridge 599 of thedivider 550 to removably connect theswivel mounting structures 563 toFront end 553 ofdivider 550. In one embodiment, eachplate 603a, 603b may include afold stop structure 570a, 570b. In an embodiment, the fold stop structure may include raised orangled portions 615a, 615b configured to define a fold angle C. FIG.
参考图105A-D，在一实施例中，挡板556包括弹性凸片606，其配置为当挡板达到竖立位置时接合限定在旋转安装件597中的凸片凹部604a，如图105B所示。弹性凸片606配置为当其接合凸片凹部604a时将挡板保持在竖立位置中。在一实施例中，凸片凹部604a被限定在安装凹部604中。在一实施例中，当回力被施加至挡板时，弹性凸片606弯曲且从凸片凹部604a脱离，以使得挡板可朝向折叠位置移动，如图105D所示。在一实施例中，安装凹部604包括折叠挡止结构604b。在一实施例中，弹性凸片606接合折叠挡止结构以挡止挡板556a朝向分隔器底板554的旋转且保持折叠位置的期望折叠角度。在一实施例中，折叠挡止结构604b被限定在安装凹部604中，且可例如为如图105A中所示的成角度部分。Referring to Figures 105A-D, in one embodiment, thebaffle 556 includes aresilient tab 606 configured to engage atab recess 604a defined in theswivel mount 597 when the baffle reaches the upright position, as shown in Figure 105B . Theresilient tab 606 is configured to hold the baffle in the upright position when it engages thetab recess 604a. In one embodiment, thetab recess 604a is defined in the mountingrecess 604 . In one embodiment, when a return force is applied to the baffle, theelastic tab 606 flexes and disengages from thetab recess 604a so that the baffle can move toward the folded position, as shown in Figure 105D. In one embodiment, the mountingrecess 604 includes afold stop structure 604b. In one embodiment, theresilient tab 606 engages the fold stop structure to stop rotation of theflap 556a toward thedivider floor 554 and maintain the desired fold angle of the folded position. In one embodiment, thefold stop structure 604b is defined in the mountingrecess 604, and may be, for example, an angled portion as shown in Figure 105A.
参考图106A-B，示出了示例性系统的各种示例性方面，该系统可包括挡板，其能在折叠位置和竖立位置之间移动而不需要借助于旋转偏压元件。在一实施例中，系统可包括分隔器组件550，其配置为固定至支撑结构，例如前导轨。在一实施例中，分隔器壁552可包括分隔器延伸部552a，其配置为增加分隔器壁的高度。在一实施例中，分隔器壁延伸部552a和分隔器壁552可包括舌部和沟槽部件，其配置为固定延伸部至分隔器壁。在一实施例中，分隔器壁的前边缘552d可被倒圆。倒圆边缘可例如防止产品包装勾住边缘和撕裂。此外，分隔器壁的厚度可被增加以增强该壁的强度，例如适合用于分隔器壁延伸部的舌部和沟槽部件。使用增加厚度的分隔器壁的系统的例子可对于较重产品有用，例如罐装苏打水，其可要求比小的轻的产品更结实的展示系统。在一上述实例中，挡板和系统的宽度可被增加以例如适应可要求更多货架空间的更大产品。在一实施例中，如图106B中所示，折叠挡止结构570被限定在分隔器底板554中。Referring to Figures 106A-B, various exemplary aspects of an exemplary system are shown that can include a flap that can be moved between a folded position and an upright position without resorting to a rotational biasing element. In an embodiment, the system may include adivider assembly 550 configured to be secured to a support structure, such as a front rail. In one embodiment, thedivider wall 552 may include adivider extension 552a configured to increase the height of the divider wall. In an embodiment,divider wall extension 552a anddivider wall 552 may include tongue and groove members configured to secure the extension to the divider wall. In one embodiment, thefront edge 552d of the divider wall may be rounded. Rounded edges may, for example, prevent product packaging from snagging edges and tearing. Additionally, the thickness of the divider wall may be increased to enhance the strength of the wall, such as tongue and groove components suitable for use in divider wall extensions. An example of a system using divider walls of increased thickness may be useful for heavier products, such as canned sodas, which may require a stronger display system than smaller, lighter products. In one of the above examples, the width of the baffles and system can be increased to accommodate, for example, larger products that may require more shelf space. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 106B , afold stop structure 570 is defined in thedivider floor 554 .
在一实施例中，给售卖展示系统重新备货的示例性方法被参考图100A至100D进行描述。如图100A所示，售卖展示系统可包括第一分隔器550a和第二分隔器550b。第一和第二分隔器还可称为左侧分隔器550a和右侧分隔器550b。第一和第二分隔器可包括第一和第二分隔器壁，其从相应分隔器的前端延伸至后端。产品容器573可被限定在相对的第一和第二分隔器壁之间。第一分隔器可包括第一挡板556c，其定位在分隔器550a的前端处且在第一分隔器的右方。第二分隔器可包括第一挡板556d，其定位在第二分隔器的前端处且在第二分隔器的左方。系统可包括顶推器520，其定位在第一和第二分隔器之间。顶推器可包括偏压元件，其将顶推器沿向前方向F朝向分隔器的前端顶推。分隔器556c、556d可处于如图100A中所示的第一竖立位置。参考图100B，挡板556c、556d可位于第二折叠位置，例如通过数位第移动挡板至第二位置或使用产品顶推挡板进入第二位置同时定位产品在产品容器中。替换地，通过在挡板(其处于第一竖立位置)的顶部之上移动产品产品且直接进入产品容器，产品可被放置在产品容器中。参考图100C，产品可被定位在产品顶推器前方且与产品顶推器的前表面接触，以使得当产品被释放时，产品顶推器处于一位置中以向前移动产品。一旦产品被释放，顶推器520将产品向前移动以使得产品接触挡板。当挡板处于第二折叠位置中且产品处于产品容器中且被释放时，顶推器可向前顶推产品以使得产品接触挡板且将挡板从第二折叠位置移动至第一竖立位置。当挡板达到第一竖立位置，如图100D所示，挡板停止顶推器和产品的向前移动。在一实施例中，通过在挡板(其处于第一竖立位置中)之上移动产品，产品可被定位在产品容器中。在这种实例中，顶推器可向前移动产品，直至产品接触挡板，该挡板处于第一竖立位置，在那里产品的向前移动将被停止，如图100D所示。In one embodiment, an exemplary method of restocking a vend display system is described with reference to Figures 100A-100D. As shown in FIG. 100A, the vending display system may include afirst divider 550a and asecond divider 550b. The first and second dividers may also be referred to asleft divider 550a andright divider 550b. The first and second dividers may include first and second divider walls extending from a front end to a rear end of the respective divider. Aproduct container 573 may be defined between opposing first and second divider walls. The first divider may include afirst baffle 556c positioned at the front end of thedivider 550a and to the right of the first divider. The second divider may include afirst baffle 556d positioned at the front end of the second divider and to the left of the second divider. The system may include anejector 520 positioned between the first and second dividers. The ejector may include a biasing element that urges the ejector in the forward direction F towards the front end of the divider. Thedividers 556c, 556d may be in a first upright position as shown in Figure 100A. Referring to Figure 100B, theflaps 556c, 556d may be in the second folded position, such as by digitally moving the flaps to the second position or using the product to push the flaps into the second position while positioning the product in the product container. Alternatively, the product may be placed in the product container by moving the product product over the top of the baffle (which is in the first upright position) and directly into the product container. Referring to Figure 100C, the product can be positioned in front of and in contact with the front surface of the product ejector such that when the product is released, the product ejector is in a position to move the product forward. Once the product is released, theejector 520 moves the product forward so that the product contacts the baffle. When the flap is in the second folded position and the product is in the product container and released, the ejector can push the product forward so that the product contacts the flap and moves the flap from the second folded position to the first upright position . When the baffle reaches the first upright position, as shown in Figure 100D, the baffle stops the forward movement of the ejector and product. In one embodiment, the product may be positioned in the product container by moving the product over the baffle (which is in the first upright position). In such an example, the ejector can move the product forward until the product contacts the baffle, which is in the first upright position, where forward movement of the product would be stopped, as shown in Figure 100D.
参考图101A-F，在一实施例中，包括上述旋转挡板的售卖展示系统可被与改进的产品托盘一起使用以有利于产品在售卖展示系统中的有效备货。参考图101A和101B，在一实施例中，改进的产品托盘可包括底表面574、右侧壁575、左侧壁576和对齐片577。在一实施例中，对齐片577可具有近端579、远端581、右边缘583和左边缘587。对齐片577的片宽D可被限定在对齐片577的右边缘583和左边缘587之间。在一实施例中，片宽D约等于产品托盘578中的产品的宽度。在一实施例中，对齐片的长度被沿垂直于宽度D的方向限定。在一实施例中，对齐片的长度可变化。在一实施例中，对齐片的长度可约等于挡板556的高度或产品的高度。在一实施例中，对齐片的近端579被配置为连接至产品托盘的底表面574。在一实施例中，对齐片577被配置为定位在售卖展示系统的相对分隔器壁之间，以使得对齐片将产品托盘和储存在产品托盘中的产品与产品容器对齐以使得储存在产品托盘中的产品能从产品托盘，如图101D所示，直接滑动到售卖展示系统的产品容器中，如图101E所示。在一实施例中，对齐片的一部分可被朝向远端渐缩以辅助对齐片在系统的相对分隔器壁之间的插入。在一实施例中，对齐片可被用于将挡板从竖立位置移动至折叠位置以便于产品从产品托盘滑入系统的产品容器中。在一实施例中，对齐片被定位在产品容器中，以使得对齐片把挡板从竖立位置移动至折叠位置(如图101C和101D所示)，产品则可从产品托盘滑入系统的产品容器(如图101E所示)，且对齐片被从产品容器去除和从接触挡板去除。在这种实施例中，在一具有顶推器(如图101E所示)的实施例中，顶推器则可向前顶推产品，以使得最前产品接触挡板且将挡板从折叠位置移动至竖立位置。当挡板达到竖立位置时，挡板的旋转停止且产品的向前移动被停止，以使得最前产品被定位在展示系统的最前位置中(如图101F所示)。在这种实例中，对齐片被用于临时将挡板从竖立位置移动至折叠位置用于系统的备货。在一实施例中，挡板可被物理地从系统去除以使得系统可将产品备货。在一实施例中，挡板可被配置为从竖立位置朝向向前位置旋转，以使得例如挡板的顶部沿向前位置延伸超过分隔器的前端。这种定位可被称为前折叠位置。在一实施例中，挡板可被配置为从折叠位置旋转至竖立位置，且沿向前方向超过分隔器的前端以到达前折叠位置(未示出)。在一实施例中，可沿向前方向旋转超过分隔器的前端的挡板可包括旋转档止件且限定相对于分隔器底板的角度，如上关于仅在上述竖立位置和折叠位置之间旋转的挡板所述。在一实施例中，挡板可被配置为沿横向方向，左或右，滑动。在一实施例中，挡板可手动地定位在折叠位置、竖立位置和/或折叠前位置。Referring to Figures 101A-F, in one embodiment, a vend display system including a rotating baffle described above may be used with an improved product tray to facilitate efficient stocking of products in the vend display system. Referring to FIGS. 101A and 101B , in one embodiment, the modified product tray may include abottom surface 574 , aright side wall 575 , aleft side wall 576 and analignment tab 577 . In one embodiment, thealignment tab 577 may have aproximal end 579 , adistal end 581 , aright edge 583 and aleft edge 587 . The sheet width D of thealignment sheet 577 may be defined between theright edge 583 and theleft edge 587 of thealignment sheet 577 . In one embodiment, the sheet width D is approximately equal to the width of the product in theproduct tray 578 . In one embodiment, the length of the alignment piece is defined in a direction perpendicular to the width D. In one embodiment, the length of the alignment tabs may vary. In one embodiment, the length of the alignment piece may be approximately equal to the height of thebaffle 556 or the height of the product. In one embodiment, theproximal end 579 of the alignment tab is configured to connect to thebottom surface 574 of the product tray. In one embodiment, thealignment tabs 577 are configured to be positioned between opposing divider walls of the vend display system such that the alignment tabs align the product trays and products stored in the product trays with the product containers such that the product trays are stored in the product trays. The products in can be slid from the product tray, as shown in Figure 101D, directly into the product container of the vending display system, as shown in Figure 101E. In one embodiment, a portion of the alignment tabs may be tapered distally to aid insertion of the alignment tabs between opposing divider walls of the system. In one embodiment, an alignment tab may be used to move the flap from an upright position to a folded position to facilitate sliding product from the product tray into the product container of the system. In one embodiment, the alignment tabs are positioned in the product container such that the alignment tabs move the shutter from the upright position to the folded position (as shown in Figures 101C and 101D ) and the product can then be slid from the product tray into the product of the system container (as shown in Figure 101E), and the alignment tab is removed from the product container and from the contact baffle. In such an embodiment, in an embodiment with an ejector (as shown in Figure 101E), the ejector can then push the product forward so that the frontmost product contacts the baffle and pushes the baffle from the folded position Move to upright position. When the flap reaches the upright position, the rotation of the flap is stopped and the forward movement of the product is stopped so that the foremost product is positioned in the frontmost position of the display system (as shown in Figure 101F). In this instance, the alignment tabs are used to temporarily move the baffle from the upright position to the folded position for stocking of the system. In one embodiment, the baffle can be physically removed from the system so that the system can stock product. In an embodiment, the baffle may be configured to rotate from the upright position toward the forward position such that, for example, the top of the baffle extends beyond the front end of the divider along the forward position. This positioning may be referred to as the forward folded position. In one embodiment, the baffle may be configured to rotate from a folded position to an upright position and beyond the front end of the divider in a forward direction to a front folded position (not shown). In one embodiment, the baffle that is rotatable in the forward direction beyond the front end of the divider may include a rotational stop and define an angle relative to the divider floor, as above with respect to rotating only between the upright and folded positions described above. baffle described. In one embodiment, the shutter may be configured to slide in a lateral direction, left or right. In one embodiment, the baffle is manually positionable in the folded position, the upright position and/or the pre-folded position.
在一实例中，无偏压挡板556被连接至分隔器底板554。无偏压挡板556被配置为可被从第一位置调节至第二位置。在第一位置中，无偏压挡板556被配置为抑制或防止分隔器底板554上的产品移动超过分隔器550的前边缘。在第一位置中，无偏压挡板556配置为抑制产品被放置到分隔器底板554上。在第一位置中，无偏压挡板被配置为垂直的。在第二位置中，无偏压挡板556配置为允许产品被放置到分隔器底板554上。在第二位置中，无偏压挡板是水平的或相对于分隔器底板554或货架或分隔器所属于其上的其它结构是斜的。在一些方面，在第二位置中，无偏压挡板556被配置为与分隔器底板554或货架或无偏压分隔器556所属于其上的其它结构水平；或在第二位置中无偏压挡板556被配置为被旋转或调节于从分隔器底板554的水平角度处。从分隔器底板554的水平角度可为20度、可在约10和30度之间、或可在约20度和45度之间。在一实施例中，无偏压挡板556被配置为不具有弹簧或其它对其在第一位置和第二位置之间施力的偏压元件。在一实施例中，无偏压挡板556被配置为可被从第一位置自由调节至第二位置。在一实施例中，无偏压挡板556被配置为使得其可被移动至第一位置且将保持在第一位置中且可被移动至第二位置且将保持在第二位置中。在一实施例中，无偏压挡板556被配置为不被偏压且不包括偏压机构，例如弹簧或其它施加力在该无偏压挡板上以将无偏压挡板迫入第一位置或第二位置的装置。In one example, theunbiased baffle 556 is connected to thedivider bottom plate 554 . Theunbiased shutter 556 is configured to be adjustable from a first position to a second position. In the first position, theunbiased baffle 556 is configured to inhibit or prevent product on thedivider floor 554 from moving beyond the front edge of thedivider 550 . In the first position, theunbiased shutter 556 is configured to inhibit product from being placed on thedivider floor 554 . In the first position, the unbiased baffle is configured to be vertical. In the second position, theunbiased shutter 556 is configured to allow product to be placed on thedivider floor 554 . In the second position, the unbiased baffle is horizontal or inclined relative to thedivider floor 554 or other structure on which the shelf or divider belongs. In some aspects, in the second position, theunbiased baffle 556 is configured to be level with thedivider floor 554 or shelf or other structure on which theunbiased divider 556 belongs; or in the second position unbiased Thepressure plate 556 is configured to be rotated or adjusted at a horizontal angle from thedivider floor 554 . The horizontal angle from thedivider floor 554 may be 20 degrees, may be between about 10 and 30 degrees, or may be between about 20 and 45 degrees. In one embodiment, theunbiased shutter 556 is configured without a spring or other biasing element urging it between the first and second positions. In one embodiment, theunbiased shutter 556 is configured to be freely adjustable from a first position to a second position. In one embodiment, theunbiased shutter 556 is configured such that it can be moved to and will remain in the first position and can be moved to and will remain in the second position. In one embodiment, theunbiased shutter 556 is configured to be unbiased and does not include a biasing mechanism, such as a spring or other force applied to the unbiased shutter to urge the unbiased shutter into the first position. A device in one position or a second position.
在各个实施例中，包括如前段落中的示例性实施例，外部物体，例如图99A-99C中所示的产品或产品托盘578或对齐片577或产品托盘578的壁(如图101A-101C所示)或把手或人的手指，可移动或迫使无偏压挡板556从第一位置至第二位置或从第二位置至第一位置。产品或托盘578或对齐片577或人手指可施加力在无偏压挡板556上，以使得无偏压挡板556从第一位置(其大致垂直于分隔器底板554)移动至斜的第二位置或北京市水平的第二位置。在第二位置中，无偏压挡板556被配置为使得产品可被放置至分隔器底板554上且允许产品被以便利的方式备货。在产品已被备货至分隔器底板554后，顶推器520沿朝向分隔器550的前部和产品货架的前部或分隔器550所位于其上的其它结构的方向施加力在产品上。顶推器可为弹簧促动顶推器，其中弹簧或其它偏压单元施加力在顶推器上，将其朝向分隔器550的前部偏压。弹簧或其它偏压单元没有物理地连接或直接接触无偏压挡板556。而产品施加力在无偏压挡板554上，其促动被偏压挡板至第一位置中。在第一位置中，无偏压挡板防止产品移动超过分隔器的前边缘或货架或分隔器550被固定至的其它结构。In various embodiments, including the exemplary embodiments in the preceding paragraphs, an external object, such as the product shown in FIGS. 99A-99C or theproduct tray 578 or thealignment tab 577 or the wall of the product tray 578 (FIGS. 101A-101C ) shown) or a handle or a human finger, theunbiased shutter 556 can be moved or forced from the first position to the second position or from the second position to the first position. Product ortray 578 oralignment tab 577 or a human finger may apply force onunbiased shutter 556 to moveunbiased shutter 556 from a first position (which is generally perpendicular to divider floor 554) to a diagonal second position. The second position or the second position at the Beijing level. In the second position, theunbiased baffle 556 is configured so that products can be placed onto thedivider floor 554 and allow products to be stocked in a convenient manner. After the products have been stocked to thedivider floor 554, theejector 520 exerts a force on the products in a direction toward the front of thedivider 550 and the front of the product shelf or other structure on which thedivider 550 is located. The ejector may be a spring-actuated ejector, wherein a spring or other biasing unit exerts a force on the ejector, biasing it toward the front of thedivider 550 . A spring or other biasing element is not physically connected or in direct contact with theunbiased baffle 556 . While the product exerts a force on theunbiased flap 554, it urges the biased flap into the first position. In the first position, the unbiased baffle prevents product movement beyond the front edge of the divider or shelf or other structure to which thedivider 550 is secured.
在一实施例中，多个产品可被定位在系统的产品容器中。消费者可例如去除最前的产品。在这种情况下，例如，顶推器可向前顶推产品容器中的剩余产品，以使得一排中的下一产品接触挡板且产品的向前移动停止。在这种情况下，最前位置中的产品被一排中的下一产品取代，由此保持产品在最前位置中直至容器573中的产品用完。In one embodiment, multiple products may be positioned in a product container of the system. The consumer may, for example, remove the top product. In this case, for example, the ejector may eject the remaining product in the product container forward so that the next product in a row contacts the baffle and the forward movement of the product stops. In this case, the product in the frontmost position is replaced by the next product in a row, thereby maintaining the product in the frontmost position until the product in thecontainer 573 is used up.
参考图107-135，描述了替换的示例性产品管理展示系统1200。在该实施例中的，分隔器1202和顶推器1204可大于上述实施例以用于周围货架上的较大包装以及冷却器和冷冻器中的货架。这三种应用典型地要求比其他替换实施例更大和更结实的分隔器和顶推器，该替换实施例目标更朝向较小类型的产品，例如健康和美容辅助类型产品。该实施例和上述替换实施例可被并排安装在相同前轨道中，且可以这里所述方式移动和锁定就位。例如，凸轮720可被并入分隔器且展示系统1200则可被安装至前导轨580，如上所述。顶推器1204可为任意上述顶推器，或可为安装在分隔器上的轨道上或中的顶推器。顶推器1204可包括卷绕弹簧，如这里所述。107-135, an alternative exemplary productmanagement display system 1200 is described. In this embodiment, thedividers 1202 andejectors 1204 may be larger than the above-described embodiments for larger packages on surrounding shelves and shelves in coolers and freezers. These three applications typically require larger and stronger dividers and pushers than other alternative embodiments, which are aimed more towards smaller types of products, such as health and beauty aid type products. This embodiment and the alternative embodiments described above can be mounted side-by-side in the same front rail, and can be moved and locked in place in the manner described herein. For example,cam 720 can be incorporated into the divider anddisplay system 1200 can then be mounted tofront rail 580, as described above. Theejector 1204 may be any of the ejectors described above, or may be an ejector mounted on or in a track on the divider. Theejector 1204 may include a coil spring, as described herein.
如图中所示，产品管理展示系统可被安装至朝向货架的背部定位的后悬杆1206。悬挂件1208可被定位在形成在分隔器中的空腔中且延伸分隔器的长度。悬挂件的钩端则可被定位在悬杆上且整个系统可被从悬杆悬出。As shown, the product management display system may be mounted to arear hanger 1206 positioned towards the back of the shelf. Thehanger 1208 may be positioned in a cavity formed in the divider and extend the length of the divider. The hook end of the hanger can then be positioned on the hanger and the entire system can be suspended from the hanger.
在一个实施例中，悬杆1206可为方管，其具有附连至任意端的短托架，其配合至货架系统的陈列架立柱中。当安装至陈列架立柱中时，悬杆1206通常仅位于从陈列架的后壁一两英寸处。单独的产品托盘，或有时就是长钩或悬挂件(例如悬挂件1208)然后被附连至悬杆1206且向前悬垂。通过使用悬挂件，消除了对于货架的需求。In one embodiment,hangers 1206 may be square tubes with short brackets attached to either end that fit into display rack posts of the racking system. When installed into a display stand, thehangers 1206 are typically located only an inch or two from the rear wall of the display. Individual product trays, or sometimes just long hooks or hangers such ashangers 1208, are then attached tohangers 1206 and hang forward. By using hangers, the need for shelves is eliminated.
附加地，悬挂件的使用允许将产品包装定位为垂直地更靠近且通常给予产品以“浮动”的外观，这从产品销售和管理观点来看是可意的。悬挂件1208可为金属支撑件，其配置为插入分隔器中形成的空腔中或其下。如图134中所示，金属支撑件可为细长的基本上平面的扁平金属件。在一端，可具有大的“钩”1210，其配合在悬杆上。Additionally, the use of hangers allows the product packaging to be positioned vertically closer together and generally gives the product a "floating" appearance, which is desirable from a product marketing and management standpoint. Thehanger 1208 may be a metal support configured to be inserted into or under a cavity formed in the divider. As shown in Figure 134, the metal support may be an elongated, substantially planar, flat metal piece. At one end, there may be a large "hook" 1210 that fits over the hanger.
在另一方面，如所示，例如，在图116-120中，产品管理展示系统包括顶推器延伸器1212，期增加顶推器的顶推表面。顶推器延伸器1212限定具有空腔的细长顶推器本体。顶推器延伸器1212配置为经由空腔在顶推器上滑动，如套筒，如所示，例如在图117和118中。顶推器延伸器1212具有细长的、基本上平面表面，由此形成用于顶推器的增大的顶推表面。顶推器延伸器1212可限定多种形状和构造，其形成增大的顶推表面用于将较大的产品朝向展示系统的前部推。还可设想顶推器延伸器1212可与顶推器板壁在模制操作中或其他成型过程中整体形成。In another aspect, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 116-120, the product management display system includes anejector extender 1212, which increases the ejection surface of the ejector. Theejector extender 1212 defines an elongated ejector body having a cavity. Theejector extender 1212 is configured to slide over the ejector via a cavity, such as a sleeve, as shown, eg, in FIGS. 117 and 118 . Theejector extender 1212 has an elongated, substantially planar surface, thereby forming an enlarged ejection surface for the ejector. Theejector extender 1212 can define a variety of shapes and configurations that create an enlarged ejection surface for pushing larger products toward the front of the display system. It is also contemplated that theejector extender 1212 may be integrally formed with the ejector plate wall in a molding operation or other forming process.
在替换实施例中，产品管理展示系统可为自包含可调剂托盘，其可悬挂在悬杆1206上。在示例性方面，每个面或顶推器可与与其相邻的面或顶推器分享分隔器。该配置形成更成本高效的系统。在另一示例性方面，多个面可被从悬杆1206抬起且移动到悬杆1206上的另一位置或另一悬杆上。In an alternate embodiment, the product management display system may be a self-contained dispenser tray, which may be suspended from thehanger 1206. In an exemplary aspect, each face or ejector may share a divider with its adjacent face or ejector. This configuration results in a more cost-effective system. In another exemplary aspect, the plurality of faces may be lifted from theboom 1206 and moved to another location on theboom 1206 or to another boom.
在另一方面，可在悬杆1206上向上倾斜单个分隔器或多个分隔器的前部且将其沿杆分别或成组地滑动。例如，一旦用户将分隔器的前部向下落回在悬杆1206上，分隔器的金属钩1210楔在悬杆1206上且分隔器和在分隔器上的产品的重量将分隔器保持就位在悬杆1206上。In another aspect, the front of a single divider or multiple dividers can be tilted up on thesuspension rod 1206 and slid along the rod individually or in groups. For example, once the user drops the front of the divider back down on thehanger 1206, the divider's metal hooks 1210 wedge on thehanger 1206 and the weight of the divider and product on the divider holds the divider in place on thesuspension rod 1206.
在一个实施例中，例如在图108中所示，分隔器可包括位于分隔器底板的后端上的切口或切除部分1214，其可用于允许分隔器搁置在悬杆的凸缘上。切口或切除部分可延伸分隔器底板的宽度由此形成接触线，其延伸分隔器的宽度。通过该配置，分隔器底板和悬杆之间的接触建立与悬杆的接触线，以进一步将分隔器稳定在悬杆上。由于分隔器基部的宽度增加，分隔器和悬杆之间的接触线增加，由此增加分隔器相当于悬杆的稳定性。In one embodiment, such as shown in Figure 108, the divider may include a cutout orcutout 1214 on the rear end of the divider floor, which may be used to allow the divider to rest on the flange of the hanger. The cutout or cutout may extend the width of the divider floor thereby forming contact lines that extend the width of the divider. With this configuration, the contact between the divider floor and the hanger rod establishes a line of contact with the hanger rod to further stabilize the divider on the hanger rod. As the width of the divider base increases, the line of contact between the divider and the hanger increases, thereby increasing the stability of the divider as a hanger.
在另一方面，如所示，例如，在图107、114-120和125中，分隔器延伸器1218可被用于分隔器1202。如图114中所示，分隔器延伸器1218可滑入由分隔器1202形成的空腔1222中。例如，分隔器延伸器1218可被设置有一个或多个突起1220，其可接合有分隔器1202形成的空腔1222。分隔器延伸器1218可被用于支架分隔器壁的高度，以用于较高或较大的产品。In another aspect, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 107 , 114-120 and 125 ,divider extender 1218 may be used fordivider 1202 . As shown in FIG. 114 ,divider extender 1218 can slide into cavity 1222 formed bydivider 1202 . For example, thedivider extender 1218 can be provided with one or more protrusions 1220 that can engage the cavity 1222 formed by thedivider 1202 .Divider extenders 1218 can be used to stand the height of the divider walls for taller or larger products.
图136示出了顶推器延伸器1224的另一实例，其被配置为在顶推器板1226上滑动。顶推器延伸器1224可被设置有空腔或袋部用于在其中接收顶推器板1226。一个或多个凸片1230可从空腔或袋部1228延伸，凸片1230可被垂直地布置在顶推器延伸器1224的后部上以接合临近其边缘的顶推器板1226。顶推器延伸器1224和凸片1230的边缘之间延伸的区域可被设置尺寸以稍微大于顶推器板1226的厚度，以增加分隔器延伸器1226和顶推器板1226之间的干涉配合。还可设想顶推器延伸器1224可与顶推器板1226在模制操作中或其他成型过程中整体形成。FIG. 136 shows another example of anejector extender 1224 configured to slide over anejector plate 1226 . Theejector extender 1224 may be provided with a cavity or pocket for receiving theejector plate 1226 therein. One ormore tabs 1230 can extend from the cavity orpocket 1228, and thetabs 1230 can be arranged vertically on the rear of theejector extender 1224 to engage theejector plate 1226 adjacent its edge. The area extending between theejector extender 1224 and the edge of thetab 1230 may be sized to be slightly larger than the thickness of theejector plate 1226 to increase the interference fit between thespacer extender 1226 and theejector plate 1226 . It is also contemplated that theejector extender 1224 may be integrally formed with theejector plate 1226 in a molding operation or other forming process.
图137-143示出了顶推器延伸器1324的附加实例，其可被用于这里所述的任意顶推器机构。成角度的顶推器延伸器1324、1424帮助保持较大产品竖直且防止较大产品向前落在货架上。在这些实例中，顶推器延伸器1324、1424可别设置有预定角度或从顶推器面或前保持器倾斜预定角度，从而产品被从底部顶推。通过这种方式，顶推器机构的卷绕弹簧从成角度的顶推器表面的底部施加力，以防止较大产品向前落在货架上且帮助保持售卖展示的有序外观。这种布置还使得用户容易从货架抓取较大产品。137-143 illustrate additional examples ofejector extenders 1324, which may be used with any of the ejector mechanisms described herein. Theangled ejector extenders 1324, 1424 help keep larger products upright and prevent larger products from falling forward on the shelf. In these examples, theejector extenders 1324, 1424 may be set at a predetermined angle or inclined at a predetermined angle from the ejector face or front retainer, respectively, so that the product is ejected from the bottom. In this way, the coil spring of the ejector mechanism applies force from the bottom of the angled ejector surface to prevent larger products from falling forward on the shelf and to help maintain an orderly appearance of the vending display. This arrangement also makes it easy for the user to grab larger products from the shelves.
此外，较小的保持器或挡板可被联合顶推器延伸器1324、1424使用，因为当货架完全装载时产品的重量的大部分被放置在顶推器延伸器1334、1434和顶推器板上。通过这种方式，可实现更好的购物体验，因为购买者可更容易地拿起较小挡板上的产品。此外，新产品可被更容易地堆放在货架上在更小的挡板上。但是，可设想成角度的顶推器表面可被联合更大的挡板使用。Additionally, smaller retainers or baffles can be used in conjunction with theejector extenders 1324, 1424 because the majority of the product's weight is placed on the ejector extenders 1334, 1434 and the ejector when the rack is fully loaded board. In this way, a better shopping experience can be achieved as the buyer can more easily pick up products on the smaller flaps. In addition, new products can be more easily stacked on the shelf on smaller baffles. However, it is envisaged that the angled ejector surface could be used in conjunction with larger baffles.
图137示出了示例性顶推器延伸器1324的后视图且图139示出了前视图，其被配置为在顶推器上滑动，例如图106A和106B中所示的顶推器520。图143示出了与图106A和106B的顶推器组件接合的一对顶推器延伸器1324。如图139中所示，顶推器延伸器可设置有成角度顶推器表面1342，其从顶推器面或前保持器成预定角度。137 shows a rear view and FIG. 139 shows a front view of anexemplary ejector extender 1324 configured to slide over an ejector, such asejector 520 shown in FIGS. 106A and 106B. Figure 143 shows a pair ofejector extenders 1324 engaged with the ejector assembly of Figures 106A and 106B. As shown in Figure 139, the ejector extender may be provided with anangled ejector surface 1342 that is angled from the ejector face or front retainer at a predetermined angle.
如图137中所示，顶推器延伸器1324可被形成有空腔或袋部1328。空腔1328可被设置有一个或多个凸片1330，其可被在顶推器延伸器1324的后部上垂直布置，以接合与其边缘相邻的顶推器520。凸片1330可从由顶推器延伸器1324的后部上的垂直后表面形成的平面延伸。顶推器520或顶推器板可被接收在由顶推器延伸器上的垂直后表面限定的平面和凸片1330的内边缘之间。附加地，顶推器延伸器1324可被设置有边沿1340，其绕顶推器的周边延伸。在一个实例中，凸片1330可被设置尺寸以稍微大于顶推器板的厚度，以增加顶推器延伸器1326和顶推器之间的干涉配合。开口1336可被临近凸片1330形成，以提供模制操作的关闭部，且还可给用户提供可视线索以对齐顶推器面522和顶对齐延伸器1324。As shown in FIG. 137 , theejector extender 1324 may be formed with a cavity orpocket 1328 . Thecavity 1328 may be provided with one ormore tabs 1330, which may be arranged vertically on the rear of theejector extender 1324 to engage theejector 520 adjacent its edge.Tabs 1330 may extend from a plane formed by a vertical rear surface on the rear ofejector extender 1324 . Theejector 520 or ejector plate can be received between the plane defined by the vertical rear surface on the ejector extender and the inner edge of thetab 1330 . Additionally, theejector extender 1324 may be provided with arim 1340 that extends around the perimeter of the ejector. In one example, thetabs 1330 may be sized to be slightly larger than the thickness of the ejector plate to increase the interference fit between the ejector extender 1326 and the ejector.Openings 1336 can be formed adjacent totabs 1330 to provide closure for the molding operation, and also to provide a visual clue to the user to align theejector face 522 andtop alignment extender 1324.
附加地，顶推器延伸器1324可设置有多个突起1332，其从形成在空腔1328内侧的中央壁1338延伸。突起1332可被配置为与形成在顶推器面522上的水平沟槽525对齐，以用于顶推器延伸器1324在顶推器板上的牢固配合。由此，当突起1332接合形成在顶推器面522上的水平沟槽525时，在顶推器板上安装顶推器延伸器1324形成棘轮声响。该棘轮声响可指示用户顶推器延伸器1324以及正确地安装就位。但是，还可设想顶推器延伸器1324可与顶推器在模制操作中或其他成型过程中整体形成。Additionally, theejector extender 1324 may be provided with a plurality ofprotrusions 1332 extending from acentral wall 1338 formed inside thecavity 1328 . Theprotrusions 1332 may be configured to align withhorizontal grooves 525 formed on theejector face 522 for a secure fit of theejector extenders 1324 on the ejector plate. Thus, mounting theejector extender 1324 on the ejector plate creates a ratcheting sound when theprotrusion 1332 engages thehorizontal groove 525 formed on theejector face 522. The ratcheting sound can indicate to the user that theejector extender 1324 is properly seated. However, it is also contemplated that theejector extender 1324 could be integrally formed with the ejector in a molding operation or other forming process.
图138示出了另一示例性顶推器延伸器1424的后视透视图且图140示出了前视透视图，其也被配置为在顶推器上滑动，例如图106A和106B中所示的顶推器520。图138中所示的实施例类似于图137和139中所示的实施例，其中相似的附图标记表示相似的部件。但是，在图138中所示的实施例中，顶推器延伸器1424的成角度顶推表面1442的表面区域可被形成的更大以分配大尺寸产品。顶推器延伸器1424可被形成有空腔或袋部1428。空腔1428可被设置有一个或多个凸片1430，其可被在顶推器延伸器1424的后部上垂直布置，以接合与其边缘相邻的顶推器520。凸片1430可从由顶推器延伸器1424的后部上的垂直后表面形成的平面延伸。顶推器板可被接收在由顶推器延伸器上的垂直后表面限定的平面和凸片1430的内边缘之间。附加地，顶推器延伸器1424可被设置有边沿1440，其绕顶推器板的周边延伸。在一个实例中，凸片1430可被设置尺寸以稍微大于顶推器板的厚度，以增加顶推器延伸器1426和顶推器板1426之间的干涉配合。开口1436可被临近凸片1430形成，以提供模制操作的关闭部，且还可给用户提供可视线索以对齐顶推器面522和顶对齐延伸器1424。Figure 138 shows a rear perspective view and Figure 140 shows a front perspective view of anotherexemplary ejector extender 1424, which is also configured to slide over an ejector, such as shown in Figures 106A and 106B Theejector 520 is shown. The embodiment shown in Figure 138 is similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 137 and 139, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts. However, in the embodiment shown in Figure 138, the surface area of theangled ejection surface 1442 of theejector extender 1424 can be made larger to dispense large size products. Theejector extender 1424 may be formed with a cavity orpocket 1428 . Thecavity 1428 may be provided with one ormore tabs 1430, which may be arranged vertically on the rear of theejector extender 1424 to engage theejector 520 adjacent its edge.Tabs 1430 may extend from a plane formed by a vertical rear surface on the rear ofejector extender 1424 . The ejector plate can be received between the plane defined by the vertical rear surface on the ejector extender and the inner edge of thetab 1430 . Additionally, theejector extender 1424 may be provided with arim 1440 that extends around the perimeter of the ejector plate. In one example, thetabs 1430 may be sized to be slightly larger than the thickness of the ejector plate to increase the interference fit between the ejector extender 1426 and the ejector plate 1426 .Openings 1436 may be formed adjacent totabs 1430 to provide closure for the molding operation, and may also provide a visual cue to the user to align theejector face 522 andtop alignment extender 1424.
附加地，顶推器延伸器1424可设置有多个突起1432，其从形成在空腔1428内侧的中央壁1438延伸。突起1432可被配置为与形成在顶推器面522上的沟槽525对齐，以用于顶推器延伸器1424在顶推器板上的牢固配合。由此，当突起1432接合形成在顶推器面522上的水平沟槽525时，在顶推器板上安装顶推器延伸器1424形成棘轮声响。还可设想顶推器延伸器1424可与顶推器在模制操作中或其他成型过程中整体形成。Additionally, theejector extender 1424 may be provided with a plurality ofprotrusions 1432 extending from acentral wall 1438 formed inside thecavity 1428 . Theprotrusions 1432 may be configured to align withgrooves 525 formed on theejector face 522 for a secure fit of theejector extenders 1424 on the ejector plate. Thus, mounting theejector extender 1424 on the ejector plate creates a ratcheting sound when theprotrusion 1432 engages thehorizontal groove 525 formed on theejector face 522. It is also contemplated that theejector extender 1424 may be integrally formed with the ejector in a molding operation or other forming process.
图141示出了与售卖展示系统中的顶推器组件1400接合的示例性顶推器延伸器1424的前透视图，其类似于这里关于图95-106b所述的实施例，图141示出了其后视图。例如，在该实施例中，顶推器组件1400可设置有挡板1456，其配置为在竖起位置和折叠位置之间旋转且可具有与这里关于图95-106b所述的挡板556类似的部件和特征。还可设想挡板1456可被如这里所述固定。而且，顶推器机构可类似于上面关于图106A和106B所述的顶推器布置。在该实施例中，底板1454不包括分隔器壁，其在特定情况下可更高效地用于较大尺寸的产品。附加地，顶推器组件1400可被固定值前轨道，或可经由这里所述的凸轮机构悬杆。Fig. 141 shows a front perspective view of anexemplary ejector extender 1424 engaged with the ejector assembly 1400 in a vend display system, similar to the embodiment described herein with respect to Figs. 95-106b, Fig. 141 shows its rear view. For example, in this embodiment, the ejector assembly 1400 may be provided with aflap 1456 that is configured to rotate between an erected position and a folded position and may haveflaps 556 similar to those described herein with respect to Figures 95-106b components and features. It is also contemplated that thebaffle 1456 could be secured as described herein. Also, the ejector mechanism may be similar to the ejector arrangement described above with respect to Figures 106A and 106B. In this embodiment, thebottom plate 1454 does not include divider walls, which may be more efficient for larger sized products in certain circumstances. Additionally, the ejector assembly 1400 may be fixed to the front track, or may be suspended via a cam mechanism as described herein.
前述的变体和改变在本发明的范围内。例如，本领域技术人员将理解，多个所述部件可以各种构造用在商店中。本发明因此不限于单个系统，也不限于附图所示的竖直顶推器构造，因为该系统仅是本发明特征、教导和原理的示例。还应理解，在此披露和限定的本发明延伸到所述或从文字和/或附图显现的各特征中的两个或更多特征的替换组合。所有这些不同组合构成本发明的各个替换方面。在此所述的实施例解释用于实施本发明的最佳模式，且将使得本领域技术人员利用本发明。Variations and alterations of the foregoing are within the scope of the present invention. For example, those skilled in the art will appreciate that a plurality of such components may be used in a store in various configurations. The present invention is thus not limited to a single system, nor to the vertical ejector configuration shown in the accompanying drawings, as this system is merely exemplary of the features, teachings and principles of the present invention. It is also to be understood that the invention disclosed and defined herein extends to alternative combinations of two or more of the various features described or apparent from the text and/or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the present invention. The embodiments described herein illustrate the best mode for carrying out the invention, and will enable those skilled in the art to utilize the invention.
参考图144A-144B，描述了替换的示例性产品管理展示系统14400。在一个实例中，图144A的产品管理展示系统14400示出了第一顶推器系统14401a和第二顶推器系统14401b，但是本领域技术人员应理解系统14400可包括任意数量的顶推器系统14401，从而系统14400可包括单顶推器系统，三顶推器系统，十顶推器系统，等等。注意，顶推器系统14401a和14401b基本上彼此相同，其中顶推器系统14401a被示出处于第一构造中，顶推器系统14401b被示出处于第二构造中(所述构造在下面详述)。而且，由于顶推器系统14401a和14401b基本上彼此相同，下面的说明集中在顶推器系统14401a的各个元件上，且应理解基本上相同的部件可用在系统14401b中。144A-144B, an alternative exemplary productmanagement display system 14400 is described. In one example, the productmanagement presentation system 14400 of Figure 144A shows afirst ejector system 14401a and asecond ejector system 14401b, although those skilled in the art will understand that thesystem 14400 may include any number of ejector systems 14401, and thus thesystem 14400 may include a single ejector system, a triple ejector system, a ten ejector system, and the like. Note that theejector systems 14401a and 14401b are substantially identical to each other, with theejector system 14401a shown in a first configuration and theejector system 14401b shown in a second configuration (the configurations are described in detail below). ). Also, since ejectorsystems 14401a and 14401b are substantially identical to each other, the following description focuses on the various elements ofejector system 14401a, with the understanding that substantially the same components may be used insystem 14401b.
在一个实例中，顶推器系统14401a被配置为位于产品展示货架或表面(未示出)上，从而系统14401a可被用于朝向所述货架和/或表面促动一个或多个产品，或称为“售卖单元”。特别地，顶推器系统14401a可包括顶推器14402a，其中配置为沿线性轨道14404a滑动。所述线性轨道14404a被结合图144B详述。在一实例中，顶推器14402a可类似于顶推器520和/或顶推器1204等中的一个或多个。可枢转联接至所述顶推器14402的是锁定臂14406a，其中所述锁定臂14406a配置为选择性地阻止顶推器14402a沿一个或多个纵向方向14403和/或14405移动。该选择性锁定机构被结合图144B详述。In one example, theejector system 14401a is configured to be located on a product display shelf or surface (not shown) so that thesystem 14401a can be used to actuate one or more products toward the shelf and/or surface, or referred to as "selling units". In particular, theejector system 14401a can include anejector 14402a configured to slide along alinear track 14404a. Thelinear track 14404a is detailed in conjunction with Figure 144B. In one example,ejector 14402a may be similar to one or more ofejector 520 and/orejector 1204, among others. Pivotably coupled to theejector 14402 is a locking arm 14406a, wherein the locking arm 14406a is configured to selectively prevent movement of theejector 14402a in one or morelongitudinal directions 14403 and/or 14405. The selective locking mechanism is detailed in conjunction with Figure 144B.
顶推器系统14401a还包括拉片14410a(或称为拉杆14410a)，其中所述拉片14410a配置为滑动地且可去除地接合锁定臂14406a以将顶推器14402a沿轨道14404a沿一个或多个纵向方向14403和/或14405滑动。相应地，顶推器系统14401a被示出在第一构造中具有从锁定臂14406a脱离的拉片14410a和顶推器14402a，二顶推器系统14401b被示出在第二构造中具有与锁定臂14406b接合的拉片14410b以允许顶推器14402b沿一个或多个纵向方向14403和/或14405线性滑动。Theejector system 14401a also includes a pull tab 14410a (or pull rod 14410a), wherein the pull tab 14410a is configured to slidingly and removably engage the locking arm 14406a to push theejector 14402a along one or more of thetracks 14404a Thelongitudinal directions 14403 and/or 14405 slide. Accordingly, theejector system 14401a is shown in the first configuration with the pull tab 14410a and theejector 14402a disengaged from the locking arm 14406a, and the twoejector system 14401b is shown in the second configuration with thelocking arm 14406b engagespull tab 14410b to allowejector 14402b to slide linearly in one or morelongitudinal directions 14403 and/or 14405.
顶推器系统14401a还包括顶推器延伸器14408a，其中顶推器延伸器14408a可类似于顶推器延伸器1212、1324和/或1424等中的一个或多个。附加地，顶推器系统14401a可包括挡板14414a，其中所述挡板14414a可类似于挡板556和/或1456等中的一个或多个。相应地，一个或多个售卖单元可被定位在挡板14414a和顶推器14402a之间，以使得顶推器14402a可用于沿纵向方向14405朝向展示货架(未示出，其可有挡板14414a描绘)的前部促动所述一个或多个售卖单元这样，在一个实施中，一个或多个表面14411a和/或14411b包括一个或多个滑动表面，其配置为允许一个或多个售卖单元沿一个或多个纵向方向14403和/或14405滑动。在一个实例中，顶推器系统14401a和14401b配置为可去除地联接至前导轨14412，其中导轨14412可类似于导轨580和/或610等。Theejector system 14401a also includes anejector extender 14408a, wherein theejector extender 14408a may be similar to one or more of theejector extenders 1212, 1324, and/or 1424, among others. Additionally, theejector system 14401a can include abaffle 14414a, wherein thebaffle 14414a can be similar to one or more of thebaffles 556 and/or 1456, among others. Accordingly, one or more vending units can be positioned between thebaffle 14414a and theejector 14402a so that theejector 14402a can be used in thelongitudinal direction 14405 toward a display shelf (not shown, which can havebaffles 14414a) The front of the depicted) actuates the one or more vending units. Thus, in one implementation, one ormore surfaces 14411a and/or 14411b include one or more sliding surfaces configured to allow the one or more vending units Slide in one or morelongitudinal directions 14403 and/or 14405. In one example,ejector systems 14401a and 14401b are configured to be removably coupled tofront rail 14412, which rail 14412 may be similar torails 580 and/or 610, or the like.
如前所述，顶推器系统14401b示出了锁定臂14406b处于第二构造中，且与拉片14410b接合，由此允许顶推器14402b沿一个或多个纵向方向14403和/或14405滑动。该构造，由区域14416描述，更清晰地示出于图144B中。As previously described, theejector system 14401b shows thelocking arm 14406b in the second configuration and engaged with thepull tab 14410b, thereby allowing theejector 14402b to slide in one or morelongitudinal directions 14403 and/or 14405. This configuration, depicted byregion 14416, is shown more clearly in Figure 144B.
图144B示意性地示出了由区域14416描述的顶推器系统14401b的一部分。特别地，图144B示出了顶推器14402具有顶推器面14418和顶推器架14420。相应地，所述顶推器架14420配置为滑动地联接至线性轨道14404。在一个实例中，通过所述顶推器架14420上的一个或多个对齐靴14426来便于该滑动联接，其中对齐靴14426配置为在所述轨道14404上相对于一个或多个对齐导轨保持顶推器架14420的适当对齐。在一个实例中，一个或多个对齐靴14426具有C形，从而便于沿一个或多个纵向方向14403和/或14405的线性运动，但是阻止垂直于纵向方向14403和/或14405的任意其他方向的顶推器架14420的移动。在一个实例中，滑动表面14411可为一个或多个对齐导轨14424的顶表面等。FIG. 144B schematically shows a portion of theejector system 14401b depicted byarea 14416. In particular, FIG. 144B shows that theejector 14402 has anejector face 14418 and anejector frame 14420. Accordingly, theejector frame 14420 is configured to be slidably coupled to thelinear track 14404. In one example, the sliding coupling is facilitated by one ormore alignment shoes 14426 on theejector frame 14420, wherein thealignment shoes 14426 are configured to retain a top on thetrack 14404 relative to one or more alignment rails Proper alignment ofpusher rack 14420. In one example, the one ormore alignment shoes 14426 have a C-shape, thereby facilitating linear movement in one or morelongitudinal directions 14403 and/or 14405, but preventing any other direction perpendicular to thelongitudinal directions 14403 and/or 14405. Movement of theejector frame 14420. In one example, the slidingsurface 14411 may be the top surface of one ormore alignment rails 14424, or the like.
本领域技术人员容易明白从图144A和/或图144B示出一个或多个的元件可包括聚合物、金属、纤维增强材料、陶瓷、木、织物或具有能形成这里所述各个元件的结构特性的任意其他材料。相应地，在一个实例中，顶推器架14420可被配置为由于一个或多个对齐靴14426的表面与一个或多个对齐导轨在一个或多个滑动表面14411之间的低摩擦接触而选择性地相对于轨道14404滑动。相应地，一个或多个聚合物表面、一个或多个抛光金属表面、一个或多个包括固体润滑剂(PTFE、石墨等)的表面、和/或使用一种或多种液体润滑剂等，可便于低摩擦接触。Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate from Figures 144A and/or 144B that one or more of the elements shown may comprise polymers, metals, fiber reinforced materials, ceramics, wood, fabrics, or have structural properties capable of forming the various elements described herein of any other material. Accordingly, in one example, theejector frame 14420 can be configured to be selected due to the low frictional contact between the surfaces of the one ormore alignment shoes 14426 and the one or more alignment rails between the one or more slidingsurfaces 14411 sliding relative to track 14404. Accordingly, one or more polymer surfaces, one or more polished metal surfaces, one or more surfaces comprising solid lubricants (PTFE, graphite, etc.), and/or the use of one or more liquid lubricants, etc., Low friction contact may be facilitated.
图144B还示出了拉片14410的一端具有斜面结构14428，以及后挡止部14430。相应地，当拉片14410手动促动时，斜面14428被滑动接合锁定臂14406(该过程结合图145A和145B详述)。如图144B所示，斜面14428被于锁定臂14406完全接合，从而棘爪14409从棘齿条14422脱离(结合图145A和145B详述)。图144B还示出了通道14407，其中拉片14410配置为在所述通道14407中滑动。FIG. 144B also shows that one end of the pull tab 14410 has abevel structure 14428 and arear stop 14430 . Accordingly, when the pull tab 14410 is manually actuated, theramp 14428 is slidably engaged with the locking arm 14406 (this process is detailed in connection with Figures 145A and 145B). As shown in Figure 144B, theramp 14428 is fully engaged by the lockingarm 14406 so that thepawl 14409 is disengaged from the ratchet rack 14422 (detailed in conjunction with Figures 145A and 145B). Figure 144B also shows achannel 14407 in which the pull tab 14410 is configured to slide.
图145A示意性地示出了顶推器系统14500，其中顶推器系统14500可基本上类似于图144A的顶推器系统14401a和/或14401b。特别地，顶推器系统14500包括顶推器14501，其具有顶推器面14502和顶推器架14504。锁定臂14506在锁定臂联接部14509处枢转地联接至顶推器架14504。而且，锁定臂14506在第二端处包括棘爪14508，以及凸片14510。Figure 145A schematically illustrates an ejector system 14500, wherein the ejector system 14500 may be substantially similar to theejector systems 14401a and/or 14401b of Figure 144A. In particular, the ejector system 14500 includes an ejector 14501 having an ejector face 14502 and an ejector frame 14504. Locking arm 14506 is pivotally coupled to ejector bracket 14504 at locking arm coupling 14509 . Also, the locking arm 14506 includes a pawl 14508 at the second end, and a tab 14510.
顶推器14501配置为沿轨道14516沿一个或多个纵向方向14526和/或14528滑动。在一个实例中，由于棘爪14508和棘齿条14524之间的接合，顶推器14501被阻止沿纵向方向14528滑动。相应地，对于图145A中示出的顶推器系统14500的构造，沿纵向方向14528施加手动力至顶推器面14502导致棘爪14508阻止顶推器架14504沿轨道14516的滑动。相反，当手动力沿纵向方向14526施加至顶推器面14502时，顶推器架14504将相对于轨道14516滑动，因为当顶推器架14505沿轨道14516滑动时锁定臂14506周期性地绕枢转联接部14509枢转以将棘爪14508与棘齿条14524的连续齿连续地地脱离和重新接合。The ejector 14501 is configured to slide along the track 14516 in one or more longitudinal directions 14526 and/or 14528. In one example, the ejector 14501 is prevented from sliding in the longitudinal direction 14528 due to the engagement between the pawl 14508 and the ratchet rack 14524. Accordingly, for the configuration of the ejector system 14500 shown in FIG. 145A , applying manual force to the ejector face 14502 in the longitudinal direction 14528 causes the pawls 14508 to prevent the ejector frame 14504 from sliding along the track 14516. Conversely, when manual force is applied to the ejector face 14502 in the longitudinal direction 14526, the ejector frame 14504 will slide relative to the track 14516 because the locking arm 14506 periodically pivots as the ejector frame 14505 slides along the track 14516 The rotary coupling 14509 pivots to continuously disengage and re-engage the pawl 14508 with the successive teeth of the ratchet rack 14524.
在一个实例中，图145A示意性地示出了拉片14512(或称为拉杆14512)处于脱离构造中。特别地，拉片14512，当处于脱离构造中时，具有靠近轨道14516和斜面14518的把手14514，后挡止部14520、与锁定臂14506间隔开的悬垂部14522。相反，图145B示意性地示出了顶推器系统14500处于第二构造中，从而棘爪14508从棘齿条14524脱离。In one example, Figure 145A schematically illustrates the pull tab 14512 (or referred to as the pull rod 14512) in a disengaged configuration. In particular, pull tab 14512, when in the disengaged configuration, has handle 14514 proximate track 14516 and ramp 14518, rear stop 14520, overhang 14522 spaced from locking arm 14506. In contrast, FIG. 145B schematically shows the ejector system 14500 in the second configuration such that the pawl 14508 is disengaged from the ratchet rack 14524.
在一个实例中，且如图145B所示，当眼方向14526施加手动力至把手14514时，拉片14512配置为相对于轨道14516从图145A所示的位置至图145B所示的位置滑动。特别地，沿纵向方向14526施加手动力将斜面结构14518与凸片14510滑动接合。这样，凸片14510滑上斜面结构14518直至凸片14510接触后挡止部14520。In one example, and as shown in Figure 145B, when the eye direction 14526 applies manual force to the handle 14514, the pull tab 14512 is configured to slide relative to the track 14516 from the position shown in Figure 145A to the position shown in Figure 145B. In particular, manual force is applied in longitudinal direction 14526 to slidingly engage ramp structure 14518 with tab 14510. In this way, the protruding piece 14510 slides on the inclined surface structure 14518 until the protruding piece 14510 contacts the rear stopper 14520 .
在一个实例中，拉片14512包括悬垂部14522，其中悬垂部14522配置为阻止锁定臂14506枢转超过上高度极限，其对应于悬垂部14522的高度。这样，当斜面结构14518从凸片14510脱离时，悬垂部14522阻止锁定臂14506枢转至可阻止锁定臂在重力的作用下落至与齿条的接合中的角度。特别地，表面14530具有锁定臂14506与悬垂部145228的接触点，斜面结构14518与凸片14510的接合时锁定臂14506枢转至比希望更大的角度。In one example, the pull tab 14512 includes an overhang 14522, wherein the overhang 14522 is configured to prevent the locking arm 14506 from pivoting beyond an upper height limit, which corresponds to the height of the overhang 14522. In this way, when the ramp structure 14518 is disengaged from the tab 14510, the overhang 14522 prevents the locking arm 14506 from pivoting to an angle that prevents the locking arm from falling into engagement with the rack under the force of gravity. In particular, the surface 14530 has the point of contact of the locking arm 14506 with the overhang 145228, the locking arm 14506 pivoting to a greater angle than desired upon engagement of the ramp structure 14518 with the tab 14510.
顶推器系统14500，当处于图145B所示的构造中时，其中棘爪14508从棘齿条14524脱离，允许顶推器14510相对于轨道14516沿一个或多个纵向方向14526和/或14528滑动。具体地，当处于图145B所示的构造中时，沿14528指示方向施加手动力至顶推器面14502导致顶推器14501相对于轨道14516沿方向14528滑动，而同时拉片14512缩回到轨道14516中(且特别地进入通道，如通道14407)。而且，当处于图145B所示的构造中时，沿14526所指的方向施加手动力至顶推器把手14514大致凸片14510和后挡止部14520之间接触，促动顶推器14501以相对于轨道14516沿所述相同方向14526滑动。由此，通过沿纵向方向14526施加手动力至把手14514，布置为与顶推器面14502接触的货物可被朝向轨道14516的前端14531促动，由此导致顶推器14501沿轨道14516沿所述相同方向14526移动。The ejector system 14500, when in the configuration shown in Figure 145B, wherein the pawl 14508 is disengaged from the ratchet rack 14524, allows the ejector 14510 to slide relative to the track 14516 in one or more longitudinal directions 14526 and/or 14528 . Specifically, when in the configuration shown in Figure 145B, applying manual force to the ejector face 14502 in the direction indicated by 14528 causes the ejector 14501 to slide relative to the track 14516 in the direction 14528 while the pull tab 14512 is retracted to the track 14516 (and specifically into channels such as channel 14407). Also, when in the configuration shown in Figure 145B, applying a manual force in the direction indicated by 14526 to the ejector handle 14514 approximately in contact between the tab 14510 and the rear stop 14520, actuates the ejector 14501 to oppose The rail 14516 slides in the same direction 14526. Thus, by applying manual force to the handle 14514 in the longitudinal direction 14526, a load placed in contact with the ejector face 14502 can be urged towards the front end 14531 of the track 14516, thereby causing the ejector 14501 to move along the track 14516 along the track 14516. 14526 moves in the same direction.
而且，当处于图145B中所示的构造中时，由于移动或多个售卖单元和顶推器面14502之间的接触，在顶推器面14502上沿方向14528间接施加手动力，导致顶推器14501沿轨道14516朝向后端14533沿纵向方向14528移动，一个或多个售卖单元可被装载到顶推器系统14500中。Also, when in the configuration shown in Figure 145B, indirect application of manual force in direction 14528 on the ejector face 14502 due to movement or contact between the multiple vending units and the ejector face 14502 results in a jacking One or more vending units may be loaded into the ejector system 14500 as the ejector 14501 moves in the longitudinal direction 14528 along the track 14516 towards the rear end 14533.
图146示意性地示出了棘齿条14600，其中棘齿条14600可类似于图145A的棘齿条14524。具体地，图146示意性地示出了棘齿14606a的几何，其中棘齿14606a是组成棘齿条14600的多个棘齿的示例齿。本领域技术人员应理解，棘齿条，例如棘齿条14600，可被用于便于沿第一方向的移动，如方向14602，同时阻止沿第二方向的移动，如方向14604。而且，通过棘爪，例如棘爪14508，在选择的齿对，例如从多个棘齿中的齿14606a之间的选择性接合，便于沿第一方向14602的选择性移动，同时沿第二方向14604的移动被呈现。具体地，棘齿，例如棘齿14606a，可具有包括第一角度14610的几何，该第一角度大于第二角度14612。本领域技术人员理解用于角度14610和14612的各种合适角度的组合。在一个实例中，角度14610可大于角度45°，且角度14612可小于45°。在一个实例中，角度14610可具有大于60°的角度，且角度14612可小于30°，等等。Figure 146 schematically illustrates a ratchet rack 14600, which may be similar to the ratchet rack 14524 of Figure 145A. Specifically, FIG. 146 schematically illustrates the geometry of ratchet teeth 14606a , which are example teeth of the plurality of ratchet teeth that make up ratchet rack 14600 . Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a ratchet rack, such as ratchet rack 14600, can be used to facilitate movement in a first direction, such as direction 14602, while preventing movement in a second direction, such as direction 14604. Also, selective movement in the first direction 14602 is facilitated by selective engagement between a pawl, such as pawl 14508, between a selected pair of teeth, such as teeth 14606a from a plurality of ratchet teeth, while in the second direction The movement of 14604 is rendered. Specifically, a ratchet, such as ratchet 14606a, can have a geometry that includes a first angle 14610 that is greater than the second angle 14612. Those skilled in the art understand various suitable angle combinations for angles 14610 and 14612. In one example, angle 14610 may be greater than angle 45°, and angle 14612 may be less than 45°. In one example, angle 14610 may have an angle greater than 60°, angle 14612 may be less than 30°, and so on.
在其他实施例中，顶推器系统，如顶推器系统14700可使用齿条，例如齿条14706，代替棘齿条，如图145的棘齿条14524。相应地，图147示意性地示出了顶推器系统14700的另一应用。特别地，顶推器系统14700包括顶推器14711，顶推器14711具有顶推器面14712和顶推器架14714。顶推器架14711滑动地联接至轨道14710且可枢转地联接至锁定臂14716。而且，锁定臂14716包括图片14721和卡件14718，其中所述卡件14718配置为接合在棘齿14706的多个齿中选择的齿对之间(例如齿14708)。顶推器系统14700还包括拉片14726，也称为拉杆14726，具有斜面结构14720，后挡止部14722，和悬垂部14724。In other embodiments, ejector systems, such as ejector system 14700, may use a rack, such as rack 14706, instead of a ratchet, such as rack 14524 of FIG. Accordingly, Figure 147 schematically illustrates another application of the ejector system 14700. In particular, ejector system 14700 includes ejector 14711 having ejector face 14712 and ejector frame 14714 . The ejector bracket 14711 is slidably coupled to the track 14710 and pivotally coupled to the locking arm 14716 . Further, the locking arm 14716 includes a picture 14721 and a catch 14718, wherein the catch 14718 is configured to engage between a selected pair of teeth of the plurality of teeth of the ratchet 14706 (eg, teeth 14708). The ejector system 14700 also includes a pull tab 14726, also referred to as a pull rod 14726, having a ramp structure 14720, a rear stop 14722, and an overhang 14724.
在一个实例中，棘齿14706包括多个齿，例如齿14708，具有方形。但是，本领域技术人员应认识到各种附加的或替换的齿几何可被用于棘齿14706，以在卡件14718与棘齿14706接合时阻止顶推器架14714和轨道14710之间的相对运动。例如，齿，例如齿14708，可具有三角形，圆形几何，或混合几何。In one example, ratchet 14706 includes a plurality of teeth, such as teeth 14708, having a square shape. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that various additional or alternative tooth geometries may be used for the ratchet teeth 14706 to prevent relative contact between the ejector bracket 14714 and the track 14710 when the catch 14718 engages the ratchet teeth 14706 sports. For example, teeth, such as teeth 14708, may have triangular, circular, or mixed geometries.
在一个实例中，沿第一方向14726施加手动力至拉片14726相对于轨道14710滑动拉片14726，且可滑动地接合斜面结构14720和凸片14721，从棘齿14706脱离卡件14718。相应地，图147示意性地示出了所述构造，其中斜面结构14720与凸片14721完全滑动接合，从而凸片14721与后挡止部14722接触。在图147中所示的构造中，施加手动力至拉片14726允许顶推器结构14711相对于轨道14710沿纵向方向14702滑动。而且，在图147中所示的构造中时，施加手动力和沿纵向方向14704顶推器阶段14712导致顶推器结构14711相对于轨道14710沿纵向方向14704滑动。In one example, manual force is applied to pull tab 14726 in first direction 14726 to slide pull tab 14726 relative to track 14710 and slidably engage ramp structure 14720 and tab 14721 , disengaging catch 14718 from ratchet 14706 . Accordingly, FIG. 147 schematically illustrates the configuration in which the ramp structure 14720 is in full sliding engagement with the tab 14721 so that the tab 14721 is in contact with the rear stop 14722 . In the configuration shown in FIG. 147 , applying manual force to the pull tab 14726 allows the ejector structure 14711 to slide relative to the track 14710 in the longitudinal direction 14702 . Also, in the configuration shown in FIG. 147 , the application of manual force and the ejector stage 14712 in the longitudinal direction 14704 causes the ejector structure 14711 to slide relative to the track 14710 in the longitudinal direction 14704 .
在另一构造中，当拉片14726，且特别地，斜面结构14720从凸片14721脱离时，卡件14718将接合在从齿条14706选择的两个齿之间。在这种构造中，沿纵向方向14702或14704施加手动力至顶推器面14712将不导致顶推器14711相对于轨道14710运动。In another configuration, when the pull tab 14726, and in particular the ramp structure 14720, is disengaged from the tab 14721, the catch 14718 will engage between two teeth selected from the rack 14706. In this configuration, applying manual force to the ejector face 14712 in either the longitudinal direction 14702 or 14704 will not cause the ejector 14711 to move relative to the track 14710.
